What aquatic animals live in the Mississippi River?
The Mississippi River is an iconic path of freshwater that snakes through much of the United States, connecting the Great Lakes to the Gulf of Mexico. It forms the largest and longest river system in the US and, as such, is a major source of life sustaining water to numerous animal species. While there is a plethora of aquatic life swimming through and surrounding the Mississippi’s waters, there are certain species of aquatic animals that can exclusively be found here.
Native Species
Perhaps the most iconic aquatic animal of the Mississippi River is the American Alligator – a reptile native to the southeastern US. While originally found in states like Florida and Texas, the large, vocal predators have since made their way all the way up to Illinois, and can even be spotted sunbathing at the surface of the river in search of prey. Smaller aquatic turtles, such as painted turtles, mason turtles, and sliders, also inhabits this region, usually making their home in the backwaters and marshy areas of the river.
The Mississippi is also home to a variety of fish, including the bluegill, bass, catfish, sturgeon and the paddlefish. The bluegill is by far the most abundant and often uses its strong sense of smell to catch prey. The sturgeon, however, is the most ancient of all the fish, with some species in the river existing for over a century. Paddlefish, with its distinctive paddle-like snout, mainly feeds on small invertebrates
Migratory Species
The Mississippi River is also a major highway for numerous species of migratory fish. At certain times of the year, paddlefish, salmon, trout and other species will migrate up the river from the Gulf of Mexico to spawn in the waters of North America. During this time, locals and tourists can be found fishing at the mouth of the river or in the lakes and rivers along the way.
Other aquatic animals, such as otters, sometimes use the Mississippi as a means of transportation when traveling from one body of water to another. While not native to the area, sea turtles – specifically the datter-eyed sea turtle – can also be found in the Mississippi, though in much smaller numbers than in the nearby ocean.
The Impact of Human Activity
Unfortunately, human activity has had an immense impact on the aquatic life of the Mississippi River. In recent decades, dams, levees, and artificial canals have been constructed along the path of the river, fragmenting the habitats of aquatic animals. This has made it much more difficult for the larger species, like sturgeon and paddlefish, to travel from one section of the river to the other – creating both physical and ecological barriers. In addition, overfishing and pollution have further endangered species native to the Mississippi.
Conservation Efforts
Fortunately, despite the negative impacts of industry, there has been a push to revitalize the river and its wildlife. Several efforts, both governmental and private, have been launched to improve the water quality of the Mississippi and preserve its aquatic ecosystems. River cleaning commitments, public awareness campaigns, and the introduction of non-native species that can coexist with the current population are all just a few of the initiatives taking place across the Mississippi basin.
Research and Monitoring
In order to further the conservation efforts, researchers and environmental organizations have been utilizing modern technology to track and monitor the animal population of the river. Using drones, sound recordings, satellites, and GPS collars, scientists have been able to gain a better understanding of the species that inhabit the Mississippi, as well as their patterns of movement and behavior. Such technology has been especially useful in tracking large, rare species, such as the sturgeon.
Protecting the Aquatic Wildlife of the Mississippi River
Given its iconic status, the Mississippi River is a home to an immense variety of aquatic species, both native and migratory. Unfortunately, this valuable ecosystem has been severely damaged in recent years due to industrial activities, resulting in numerous threats to the species’ populations. However, through various initiatives and the implementation of modern technology, researchers and environmental organizations are making strides in protecting the aquatic wildlife and ecosystems of the Mississippi River.
The Effects of Anthropogenic Impacts
The Mississippi River serves as an important habitat for many species, both aquatic and terrestrial. However, human activities such as fishing, dredging, and land conversion can significantly alter the River’s habitats, thus potentially negatively impacting the wildlife that rely on them. In addition, commercial and recreational water-based activities can disturb natural feeding and nesting patterns of species, especially during the reproductive period. Furthermore, the construction of dams and other water-control structures can alter both the flows and temperatures of the river, which can then have an effect on the overall biodiversity of the River.
Mitigation Efforts
Fortunately, in recent years there have been numerous mitigation efforts put in place in order to reduce anthropogenic impacts on the Mississippi River and its habitats. For example, large fishing operations are now being monitored, with regulations designed to reduce population declines among species. In addition, development projects along the river are now being subjected to certain regulations, such as obtaining permits, in order to reduce the environmental impact of these activities.
Policy Implications and Strategies
Given the vital importance of the Mississippi River to both aquatic and terrestrial wildlife, policy makers must take action in order to protect the habitats of this vital ecosystem. For example, stricter regulations could be implemented regarding activities that may negatively impact the river and its wildlife. In addition, more funding and research could be directed towards understanding the ecological processes of the ecosystem, thus allowing for more accurate environmental management strategies.
Conclusion
The Mississippi River is an important habitat for numerous species of aquatic animals. Unfortunately, human industry has created numerous threats to the river and its wildlife. However, through efforts from organizations and researchers, as well as regulations imposed by policy makers, the animal population of the Mississippi River is being protected and may yet recover from human degradation.
