They can become exceptionally large, depending on the size of their new habitat. They can grow "exponentially," which leads to an increased appetite and forces them to become aggressive about maintaining the new diet, the study says.

When added with how difficult it is to eradicate the new fish, the problem seems to have long-term implications.

Exotic fish also pose the threat of spreading "exotic diseases and parasites, and can damage natural habitats," said Dr. Jeff Cosgrove, a river science environment officer.

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Rose Scott signals as "Closer Look" goes on the air in the WABE studio. An Atlanta resident left WABE a $3 million donation, a boost after WABE lost $1.9 million in annual funding from the Corporation of Public Broadcasting. (Ben Gray for the AJC 2023)

Credit: Ben Gray