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Invasive ‘frankenfish’ species found in Pa. river

The northern snakehead is native to Russia, China and Korea. But its appearances in Pennsylvania have the state’s Fish & Boat Commission concerned - and those appearances are spreading.

According to TribLive.com , a specimen of the aggressive, invasive species was found in the Monongahela River is the first confirmed sighting in the western part of the state.

The northern snakehead, sometimes referred to as ‘frankenfish,’ has been found in waters in other parts of Pennsylvania , following the first sighting of them in the northeastern part of the United States in 2002.

READ MORE: If you see a spotted lanternfly, kill it According to the Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission website, the northern snakeheads are notable for “their torpedo shaped body, long dorsal and anal fins without spines, and toothed jaws,” and that they “are a predatory fish and will compete with other fish species for forage and habitat.”

It is against the law to sell, buy, possess or transport a live northern snakehead in Pennsylvania or introduce them to Pennsylvania waters. Anglers who find a snakehead are asked to dispose of them properly, not release them, and report any sightings to the Fish & Boat Commission.