Answer to Question 1
1. The fish could become an invasive species and cause problems in our natural environments.
2. Invasive species reduce natural biodiversity and native species populations.
3. Invasive species degrade ecosystem functions, damage commercial and recreational equipment, and make
rivers and lakes unusable for recreational and commercial activities.
4. Invasive species increase the operating costs of drinking water processing, power plants, and dam
maintenance.
5. Invasive species affect human health and reduce property values.
Answer to Question 2
Piranhas are frequently released into freshwater rivers and ponds. The concern is that groups of piranhas
could school and establish viable populations, decimating natural fish populations. They are aggressive
carnivores and have, on occasion, been caught by anglers and positively identified by fish and wildlife
officers.
