Spiny Waterflea

Spiny waterfleas are aquatic zooplankton (small animals) from Europe and Asia that have invaded the Great Lakes ecosystem, as well as some inland water bodies. Adults range from ¼ to ⅝ inch long and they have a single long tail with 1-3 sets of small spines along its length. Infestations of spiny waterfleas negatively impact native fish populations, aquatic habitats and sports fishing. There is no successful method of control.