Michigan agents seize Asian carp at markets

5/19/2006

YPSILANTI, Mich. - Eighty-four live Asian carp were confiscated Wednesday by Michigan wildlife officials at food markets in Ypsilanti and in the Detroit suburb of Southfield, Mich., the state Department of Natural Resources said yesterday.

The state agency did not name the establishments, but said fish were illegally being offered for sale.

Violators face fines of up to $10,000 if caught breaking a 2003 Michigan law that forbids the possession and transport of exotic species.

The seizure, which stemmed from an undercover operation, was the first since the sale of all four varieties of Asian carp were banned, as was the sale of live snakehead fish.

All are voracious eaters that scientists believe could devastate the multibillion-dollar Great Lakes sport and commercial fishing industries.