This footage was filmed and produced 1 March 2024.

A captivating video showcases the surreal spectacle of silverfish soaring through the air as individuals on a boat make attempts to intercede in the airborne invasion

In the world of aquatic animals, not many can boast about being able to soar through the air like the silver carp, also known as the "flying carp." These remarkable fish can catapult up to 10 feet out of the water when startled by loud noises such as boat motors. Imagine entire groups of 10-to-50-pound fish leaping and potentially causing harm to boaters with the force of their impact.

Despite the adrenaline-inducing aspect of these flying attacks, the real danger lies in the havoc that the invasive silver carp wreak on river ecosystems. Their presence not only disrupts native fish populations but also inflicts significant economic damage on commercial and recreational fishing industries to the tune of billions of dollars.

Efforts are underway to combat the spread of silver carp and safeguard against their encroachment into new water bodies. Innovative strategies such as bio-acoustic fences, advanced eDNA monitoring, and the clever use of 'traitor fish' to pinpoint their locations are being employed with the aim of containing or eliminating these unwelcome intruders.

This urgent campaign to control the invasive silver carp comes as part of Invasive Species Week, shedding light on the critical need to address threats posed by alien species to our native habitats and industries.