Echoing the alarm sounded in the early 2000s about increasing numbers of lionfish off the East Coast, NOAA scientists are warning that another species – the Asian tiger shrimp – may be invading our shores. Like any invasive species that finds itself in favorable conditions, tiger shrimp can compete with native species for food and habitat, introduce disease, and even prey on resident shrimp.
While it is too early to say what harm they may cause, news media report that natural resource authorities in Mississippi and Florida are concerned enough to ask fishermen to notify them of any sightings. NOAA and the U.S. Geological Survey are currently collecting data for a report to be released next year.