At PASES Aqua, we're dedicated to restoring the ecological balance of our water bodies. Feral fish pose significant threats to lake ecosystems, and our specialised services aim to control and manage these populations using state-of-the-art techniques and equipment.
We undertake feral fish control with the use of electrofishing boats, custom made sienne netting, spearfishing and biological control methods. We can also replace them with native fish such as Western Pygmy Perch
Our Comprehensive Approach
Electrofishing
Utilising the latest Apex boat electro fisher system from Smith Root, our method momentarily stuns fish, drawing them towards the anode electrode for safe capture. This ensures fish remain unharmed, allowing them to swim freely if not caught.
Custom-made Seine Netting
Tailored to the specific needs of the water body for effective fish capture.
Spearfishing & Biological Control
Additional methods to ensure comprehensive feral fish control.
Native Fish Restocking
We reintroduce native species like Western Pygmy Perch and Western Minnow to promote a balanced ecosystem.
Why Electrofishing?
Electrofishing is a preferred method for fish rescue and removal, especially during:
- Reservoir maintenance or decommissioning
- Bridge and culvert repairs
- Dredging
- De-watering
- Lock repairs
Contact PASES Aqua Pty Ltd to find out the best rescue/removal options for your waterbody.
The degree of ecological impact depends on the fish species and on a case-by-case basis related to environmental attributes of the water body.There is a consensus among the scientific community that Feral Carp (Cyprinus carpio) is the greatest ecological threat compared to other feral fish (Mosquitofish, Rosy barbs, Swordtails, Catfish) and needs to be eradicated immediately.
The Threat of Feral Fish
The degree of ecological impact depends on the fish species and on a case-by-case basis related to environmental attributes of the water body.There is a consensus among the scientific community that Feral Carp (Cyprinus carpio) is the greatest ecological threat compared to other feral fish (Mosquitofish, Rosy barbs, Swordtails, Catfish) and needs to be eradicated immediately.
Feral fish contribute to:
- Reduce/destroy aquatic macrophyte biomass
- Reduce macro invertebrate diversity
- Increase nutrient levels and chance of eutrophication
- Increase incidence of algal blooms
- Reduce net recruitment of native fish
- Increase disease transmission into native fish species
- Localised extinctions of native fish species
PASES Aqua can also restock lakes and wetlands with native fish including the Western Pygmy Perch (Nannoperca vittata) and the Western Minnow (Galaxias occidentalis).
Frequently asked questions
If done correctly, electrofishing only stuns the fish temporarily, and then they return to action fast
No, we have had no turtle, bird or frog deaths as we use currents only to stun the fish. We have also observed birds and turtles to be mobile even when near the anode.
Our team has managed to completely eradicate unwanted fish out of water systems with no return. Sometimes removing hundreds of pest fish. Electrofishing is commonly used worldwide for its effectiveness.
Small lakes are much easier to eradicated. Larger lakes are a lot harder to eradicate however to give a general idea, we usually capture over 90% of the population of fish over 15 cms within 2 to 3 days of boat electrofishing.
Our team also uses siene netting (60m x 3.6m drop), backpack electrofishing, spear guns and hand netting.
Related services
We have the drive, the passion, and the knowledge to help you. We employ the right people with a strong background in fish, and/or qualifications in Biology or Aquaculture and/or related fields
