Aquatic Pests

Don't dump that fish
Many fish species pose a significant risk to Western Australia’s aquatic environment.

Exotic fish, many of which are tropical freshwater species, can survive and breed in our local waterways and threaten native species.

Studies have indicated that despite the Pearl Cichlid, a popular ornamental fish, being a tropical freshwater species, it is able to survive in salinities equivalent to full-strength seawater and has established a self-sustaining population in the cool, temperate waters of the Swan Canning Riverpark.

We strongly encourage everyone to dispose of prohibited or unwanted fish responsibly - Don't dump that fish brochure.

Prohibited fish can be turned over to the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (Fisheries), Western Australia, at drop-off points at the Marine and Freshwater Research Laboratories, Hillarys and the Fish Health Laboratories at the Department's Agriculture and Food building in South Perth.

Contact the Fisheries’ FishWatch service on 1800 815 507.

Asian paddle crab
Since the discovery of four Asian paddle crabs in the Swan River in 2012 and 2014, the community, commercial and recreational crabbers and fishers have been essential partners in an ongoing project run by the Department of Fisheries to help ensure the aggressive pest species does not establish in Western Australia. Aggressive and non-native, this crab could out-compete native species like our iconic blue swimmer.

The pest crab varies greatly in colour but its definitive features are sharp spines between the eyes and six spines down each side - Asian paddle crab.

We urge you to take a good look at any crabs you catch and in any doubt, take a photo, keep the crab and ring FishWatch on 1800 815 507.

What to do if you think you've found an aquatic invader - Step-by-step guide - What to do if you've found an aquatic invader.

Be on the look out for these introduced pests - Aquatic Invaders ID guide.