Piranha-Like Fish, A 'Pacu,' Found In Glade Run Lake, Concerning Experts

Environmentalists are puzzled over an unusual, exotic fish discovered in a western Pennsylvania park.

Pacus, similar to Piranhas, are native to South America and don’t survive in cold waters. Yet, a Pacu was recently found at Glade Run Park in Butler County.

Details are still murky as to how the South American fish ended up in a Pennsylvania park, and environmental experts advise people to never introduce a fish to unfamiliar waters, citing risk of diseases and risks to native wildlife.

The Glade Run Lake Conservancy encouraged people to read its blog about the Pacu and why its presence led to concerns about the fishery of the lake.

“Fish not from Glade Run Lake should never be placed in the lake,” the Glade Run Lake Conservancy states. “This important advice is valuable to remember in order to have a great fishery and a healthy and functioning aquatic ecosystem.”

The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission also issued a statement stressing the importance of avoiding leaving animals and plants in the lake:

“The plan to restore the warm water fish community at Glade Run Lake was a carefully considered plan utilizing native species well suited for a small reservoir. Unauthorized fish stockings often do more harm than good and could create dramatic negative ecological consequences on the lake's food web and/or water quality. All of this could ultimately degrade the quantity of sportfish and the quality of the fishing. The PFBC will continue to monitor the development of the fish community and stock the fish necessary to create and maintain good fishing in Glade Run Lake. Please refrain from stocking any fish in Glade Run Lake without first consulting the PFBC.”

Photo: Getty Images