The Town of Sylvan Lake is reminding residents not to abandon pet goldfish in stormwater facilities, warning the species is invasive and harmful to the environment.
Goldfish have been found breeding in the Lakeway Landing storm pond, where officials say they are damaging the natural ecosystem.
The town says goldfish can:
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Breed quickly, laying 500 to 1,000 eggs several times each summer.
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Live up to 40 years in a variety of water temperatures and low-oxygen conditions.
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Outcompete native fish for food and habitat.
Officials say the fish also harm the ecosystem by consuming native fish eggs and larvae, spreading disease, and stirring up sediment that blocks sunlight to underwater plants, causing habitat loss.
Because stormwater flows untreated into Sylvan Lake, Cygnet Lake and Cygnet Creek, there is a risk the invasive species could spread and damage local fishing tourism.
The town says removing goldfish is costly and urges residents to rehome unwanted pets by returning them to pet stores, offering them online or contacting the Central Alberta Humane Society.
** With information from the Town of Sylvan Lake.
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