The Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF) is currently assessing different aquatic species, both plant and animal, for prohibition in Ontario under the Ontario Invasive Species Act.
These species have been identified as non-native species that could pose a risk of invasion and cause harm to the natural environment in Ontario.
- The genus Salvinia, African water weed (Lagarosiphon major) and Crested Musquitofern (Azolla cristata).
- All species of crayfish in the Genus Procambarus and Genus Pacifastacus.
- The species of non-native fishes: Eastern Mosquitofish (Gambusia holbrooki), Western Mosquitofish (Gambusia affinis), Red Shiner (Cyprinella lutrensis), and Ide (Leuciscus idus).
The MNRF’s assessment and regulatory development process includes consideration of socio-economic impacts resulting from the introduction of a species into Ontario’s natural environment, as well as the impacts to business resulting from the regulatory action. They are currently developing a list of species for potential regulatory consideration under the Ontario Invasive Species Act in 2024.
Pets Canada is currently coordinating with the MNRF to mitigate the impact to our membership. If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to:
Tonya Martin,
Vice President, Advocacy & Regulatory Affairs
Pets Canada
tonya.martin@petscanada.org I 1-800-667-7452 ext. 113
