Something fishy is happening in a few west central Saskatchewan lakes.

Prussian carp, an invasive species of fish, have been found in Stockwell and Anerley Lakes.

Dr. Christopher Somers is a Biology Professor at the University of Regina and is also part of the Saskatchewan Sportfish Research Group. He said the biggest concern is how quickly this species can take over water bodies, "The Prussian carp is a prolific breeder, it creates lots of fish very quickly. It has a general diet and eats almost anything. The thing we're concerned about is it's ability to take over aquatic ecosystems and displace native fish."

Somers noted that this time of carp can multiply in seemingly no time, "These guys have a really bizarre reproductive system. The females don't have a need for males of their own species. When they lay their eggs, they steal sperm from other fish species that just stimulate the egg. The male DNA don't get incorporated in any of the offspring... They have a mostly female population and can reproduce quickly because of this."

Hundreds of these carps were found dead at Stockwell Lake after the spring thaw. Somers said if people have seen hundreds of fish after a winter-kill, that usually means there's thousands of them actually out there.

It's still not sure how the Prussian carp managed to invade the Anerley and Stockwell Lakes. Somers said it's a concern they may be already in, or heading to, different water sources though, "The risk of the connection and the fact they probably came from somewhere else first, that's what has me worried. That suggests that, we've seen them in Anerley Lakes, but they're probably elsewhere in that South Saskatchewan River and Diefenbaker system... There isn't really a good way to get rid of them once they become established."

Prussian carp are very similar to goldfish in appearance, except for their coloring. The two are closely related but are still different species. Prussians usually grow to about six pounds and 35 centimeters long.

Anglers are being asked to keep an eye, or a hook, out for these carps and report any sightings. If one is caught, do not throw it back into the water but instead, humanely dispose or destroy it. There are no limits on Prussian carp.

Somers said they are edible fish, but are bone-filled and may not fit the North American palate.

Anglers can contact Saskatchewan Sportfish Research Group if they catch a Prussian carp.