The Mississippi River is home to some of the most diverse wildlife around the United States. From majestic bald eagles to trout and bass, the Mississippi River has been an integral part of many species’ lives for centuries. Many species of plants and animals depend on the river for water and food, and some even depend on its waters for breeding and nesting. In this article, we will explore the different creatures found in the Mississippi River, from birds to fish, reptiles, and amphibians.
The most commonly spotted birds in the Mississippi River are bald eagles, ospreys, great blue herons, and pelicans. Bald eagles can be seen perched atop tall trees near shorelines, looking out for their nightly prey. Ospreys, meanwhile, dive head-first into the river to snag their dinner. Great blue herons often walk along the muddy banks of the river, hunting for fish and other small creatures. And pelicans can be found flying in the sky or gliding across the surface of the water in search of a meal.
The Mississippi River is also home to many species of fish, including smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, catfish, sturgeon, carp, smallmouth buffalo, glossy shiners, and smallmouth sunfishes. Smallmouth bass and largemouth bass are two of the most popular species for anglers, with their strong bite and their large size making them a favorite for fishermen. Sturgeon is also a popular species, often found hiding in the darker depths of the river, waiting for food. And the smaller fish, like carp, can be seen swimming shorelines, foraging for food and shelter.
The Mississippi also offers a variety of amphibians and reptiles. American bullfrogs, southern leopard frogs, and green frogs are commonly seen during the spring and summer. They can be found near the shoreline and can quickly dart in and out of the water. Reptiles, on the other hand, are often found basking in the sun on the banks of the river, such as the eastern painted turtle, common snapping turtle, and diamondback terrapin.
In addition to its wide array of wild creatures, the Mississippi River also serves as a habitat for domesticated animals. From horses to cattle, the river offers many places to graze and rest. Horses can often be spotted near the banks of the river, while cattle are often found in herds near the shoreline.
Invasive Species
The Mississippi River is also an important habitat for some of the most invasive species in the US. Prussian carp, a species of carp from the Baltic Sea, are a known invasive species, as are Asian clams, a species of freshwater clam. The invasive fish species include the round goby and common carp, both of which compete with native species for resources and can cause problems for the environment.
Asian carp is a species of fish introduced to the Mississippi River in the 1970s in hopes that they would consume plankton and reduce the amount of algae growth in the river. However, the Asian carp have proven troublesome as they compete with native species for resources and have caused a disruption of the food web. Their voracious appetite for plankton has led to drastic drops in plankton populations, and this has had many negative effects on the river’s ecosystem.
Zebra mussels, introduced to the Mississippi River in the 1980s, are another invasive species that has severely impacted the river’s ecosystem. These mussels, native to the Black Sea, attach themselves to bank rocks, boats, and other submerged structures, blocking out sunlight and disrupting the food web.
Impact on Ecosystem
The introduction of non-native species has had a drastic impact on the Mississippi River’s ecosystem. Not only have they altered the species composition of the river, but they have also impacted the structure and function of the food web. The introduction of species like Asian carp and zebra mussels have caused a decrease in plankton populations, which is then followed by a decrease in other food sources, such as native fish species.
This disruption of the food web can cause serious problems for the river’s native wildlife. For example, fish populations can decrease drastically, leading to a decrease in the number of predators in the food chain. Additionally, the presence of invasive species can lead to lower water quality due to their excretion of pollutants and waste.
In addition to negative impacts on the river’s food chain, invasive species can also cause problems for recreational activities, such as fishing. Fishing can be affected due to the decrease in population of native fish, and boating can be difficult due to the presence of invasive species. This can lead to a decrease in tourism, as people are less likely to come to the river if fishing and boating are not possible.
Conservation Efforts
In order to protect the Mississippi River’s native fish, wildlife, and ecosystem, conservation efforts are being made to control the spread of invasive species. One approach to control invasive species is through chemical treatments, which can be used to eradicate alien species or to control the spread of existing populations. Other methods of control involve physical barriers, such as dams and navigational locks, and biological controls, such as the introduction of predators to reduce the numbers of invasive species.
In addition to controlling the spread of invasive species, conservation efforts are also being made to restore the health of native species. One such effort involves restocking native fish and other wildlife, which can help to boost populations that have been affected by the presence of invasive species. Additionally, habitat restoration is taking place, as wetlands, shorelines, and other natural habitats are being restored to provide a safe and healthy environment for native species.
The Mississippi River has been an integral part of many species for centuries, and many of these species remain dependent on the river for their existence. The diverse wildlife present in the Mississippi River is a testament to the importance of conservation and protection, and it is imperative that we take steps to ensure the health of the river’s ecosystems, both now and in the future.
Environmental Education
Environmental education is also an important part of conserving and protecting the Mississippi River’s ecosystems. By educating individuals on the importance of the river and its diverse wildlife, we can ensure that they are aware of the impacts their actions have on their environment and the species that live in it. Environmental education can also provide people with the knowledge necessary to make informed decisions when it comes to protecting their environment, such as avoiding the use of hazardous chemicals or reducing their carbon footprint.
Environmental education can also serve to foster compassion and respect for nature and the creatures that live in it. It is important for individuals to understand the fragility of the environment, and how their actions can negatively affect it. By teaching people about how their actions can impact the environment, we can create a culture in which individuals are more mindful of their actions and the effects each of them can have.
Conclusion
The Mississippi River is home to a diverse array of wildlife, from majestic birds to fish, reptiles, and amphibians. Many species of plants and animals depend on the river for water and food, and some even depend on its waters for breeding and nesting. Unfortunately, the introduction of invasive species has had a drastic impact on the river’s ecosystem, and it is imperative that we take steps to protect and preserve the health of the river’s flora and fauna. Conservation efforts are being made to protect the river’s native species, as well as educate individuals on the importance of their environment. With the help of awareness and conservation, the Mississippi River can continue to be an integral part of many species’ lives for centuries to come.
