More 'Frankenfish' Found in Potomac

Last Thursday, two more Snakehead fish were caught in the Potomac River, bringing the total up to 15 for this year.  Also known as Frankenfish, this invasive species is a voracious predator that eats almost anything, so its possible spread has biologists worried. 

Besides being very aggressive, Frankenfish are remarkable for the fact that they are air-breathers, which means they can wiggle their way over land.  

The snakeheads are native to Asia and Africa, but experts believe that the fish found its way into U.S. waters through releases by aquarium owners and fish merchants.  In 2002, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service banned the import or interstate transport of live snakehead fish or eggs.

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-- LiveScience Staff

Credit: U.S. Geological Survey