Letting Loose a Monster


In 2002, the first captured discovery of a snakehead in U.S. waters was reported in a pond near Crofton, Maryland. They’ve been introduced both accidentally and illegally to other places all around the world, such as Japan, Russia, the Philippines, Madagascar, and Hawaii. (Courtenay, Williams, Northern Snakehead) There were two major factors that lead scientists to believe why Fishzilla was brought over to our lakes and rivers from Eastern Asia.
               
                The first is that snakeheads were accidentally bought and sold as pets or as food in live fish markets. This was assumedly a mistake made since snakeheads bear a striking resemblance to bowfin fish. Having realized the mistake, several markets released the fish into rivers and lakes either to get rid of them or to establish a local food resource. In 2004, after an attempt was made to eradicate all snakeheads in these waters, the Lacey Act was introduced which prevented all imports of live snakeheads and snakehead eggs without a permit. (no author, Invasive Species)

                The second reasoning was a phenomenon known as prayer animal release or life release. In Buddhist cultures where snakeheads are usually located, such as Taiwan, this practice is meant to instill compassion and happiness with nature. These practices involve birds, fish, and other animals that are released in throngs back into the wild. It is supposed to be giving back to nature in a sense, “By saving the lives of animals destined to be killed, we immediately benefit their health and longevity”. (no author, Animal Release) While mostly harmless and in good nature, these types of release can be harmful as they’ve been known to release invasive species such as snakeheads or praying mantises. While in good faith, many Buddhist societies have joined forces with science groups in order to better regulate these ceremonies.

Works cited:
1. “Northern Snakehead, Channa argus, Fact Sheet”, (2004), Maryland: Maryland Department of Natural Resources Fisheries Service, p.1., Accessed Feb 21, 2018
2. “Invasive Species Program—Snakeheads, Aquatic Invaders”, (2004), Courtenay, Jr., W.R. and Williams, J.D., USGS Circular, pg.1-2., https://www.fws.gov/fisheries/ans/pdf_files/snakeheads.pdf, Accessed Feb 21 2018
3. “Animal Release Program”, https://www.padmasambhava.org/animal-release-program/, Padmasambhava Buddhist Center, Accessed Feb 21, 2018

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