HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0715.001 2008-2010 BRENDA J. FORD .• - os p' • Phone: (808) 326 -5684
Council Member ,' Fax: (808) 329 -4786
Council District 7 — Central Kona • p s Q' ' . Email bford(�a co.hawaii. hi. us
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Hawai `i County Council r,
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Date: February 26, 2010 Re: Comrfe715
To: J Yoshimoto, Chairperson
and Hawai`i County Council Committee Members
From: "(Brenda J. Ford
Council Member, District 7
SUBJECT: Additional presentation items for the March 2, 2010 Coqui Frog Presentation
Attached are the additional information sheets in regard to the coqui frog presentation scheduled
for March 2, 2010 in the Environmental Management Committee. Please provide copies to the
appropriate committee members and staff
Mahalo
BJF /lw
Comm, N 1
Ref. To: 1 7
Serving the Interests of the People of Our Island Ref. Dote MAR 2 2010
Hawai'i County is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer
Title:
Dermal toxicity of sodium bicarbonate to control Coqui frogs, Eleutherodactylus coqui,
in Hawaii
Prepared by:
William C. Pitt, PhD
Rogelio E. Doratt
USDA APHIS, WS, NWRC
Hawaii Field Station
P.O. Box 10880
Hilo, HI 96721
Date:
August 12, 2008
Laboratory Project ID:
QA- 1541
Dermal toxicity of sodium bicarbonate to control Coqui frogs, Eleutherodactylus
coqui, in Hawaii
Executive Summary
1. We evaluated the dermal toxicity of two sodium bicarbonate applications (a powder
and a slurry solution) under laboratory conditions.
2. We evaluated four grades of sodium bicarbonate: USP #1 powder, USP #2 fine
granular, USP #5 course granular, and industrial powder.
3. Efficacy varied across grades of sodium bicarbonate and between the slurry and
powder applications.
4. USP #1, the finest grade of the four sodium bicarbonate powders was found to be the
most effective and one of the least expensive powders, sold at $24.30 per 100 lbs.
5. A powder application rate of USP #1 at 400 lbs per acre was the lowest application rate
resulting in >80% mortality within 24 hours after initial exposure.
6. Slurry solution of 25% concentration USP #1 was the lowest application resulting in
>80% mortality within 24 hours after initial exposure.
7. A powder application of sodium bicarbonate (USP #1) is cheaper and potentially easier
to apply than a slurry solution.
Pitt, W. C. and Doran, R. E. 2008. Dermal toxicity of sodium bicarbonate to control
Coqui frogs Eleutherodactylus coqui, in Hawaii. QA -1541 Final Report. USDA, APHIS,
WS, NWRC. Hilo, Hawaii 16pp.
2
INTRODUCTION
Coqui frogs, Eleutherodactylus coqui native to the Puerto Rico are widespread in
the Hawaiian Islands and have affected Hawaii's floriculture and agriculture industries,
as well as real estate, private industry, and human health (Kraus and Campbell 2002,
Beard and Pitt 2005, Beard and Pitt 2006, Beard 2007). The discoveries of frogs in
certified nurseries make them a quarantine issue that will greatly impact the exportation
of disease and pest -free nursery products to the mainland and destinations abroad. The
threat of frogs invading fragile habitats of Hawaii's rare and endangered plants and
animals is also a concern. Coqui frog densities have been estimated to reach greater than
89,000 frogs per hectare, at which they are capable of consuming approximately 675,000
arthropod prey items per hectare in a single night (Woolbright et al 2006). Once
established in native habitats the frogs could compete directly with native birds for
limited food resources, as well as prey on endemic arthropods (Beard and Pitt 2005).
During the past seven years, the National Wildlife Research Center's Hilo Hawaii
Field Station has conducted multiple studies to investigate chemical agents to manage
coqui frogs throughout the Hawaiian Islands (Campbell 2002a, Pitt and Sin 2004a and
2004b, Pitt and Doran 2006a, 20066, and 2006c). We identified four chemical agents
(caffeine, citric acid, hydrated lime, endosulfan) as effective frog toxicants that could be
utilized efficiently under certain conditions.
Although these four chemicals were found to be effective, each one displayed
drawbacks. For example registration restrictions prevented the wide spread use of
caffeine. Citric acid had some phytotoxic effects to sensitive plants and there is
reluctance in the public sector to use this chemical due to its high cost (Pitt et al. 2008).
3
Thionex, a restricted use insecticide (active ingredient endosulfan) was highly effective in
laboratory and field trails, but its use is restricted to certified applicators. In April 2008,
the quarantine exemption permit for use of hydrated lime as a control agent expired thus,
making citric acid the only chemical registered for frog control by the general public.
Therefore, additional research is needed to find other effective chemical tools.
The purpose of this study was to investigate acute dermal toxicity of sodium
bicarbonate to coqui frogs, determine the lowest application at which the frogs would
have >80% mortality after 24 hours, and determine an application rate and a solution
concentration rate for possible registration purposes to help control this invasive frog.
METHODS
Collection site
Sub -adult and adult male and female coqui frogs were collected from February
2008 through July 2008 in Lava Tree State Monument, west of Pahoa, Hawaii.
Housing of animals
Before each trial 70 frogs were hand captured and placed inside a plastic
terrarium containing moist (de- chlorinated water) paper towels and taken to an animal
holding facility at the National Wildlife Field Station, Hilo, Hawaii. There, the frogs
were maintained for Tess than 16 hours and the temperature in the room ranged from 20 to
28 °C.
Afterwards, all of the frogs were sexed and their snout vent length (SVL) and
body mass recorded. The gender of each frog was determined by following the
guidelines described by Woolbright (1989) (adult male will have a more elastic skin
underneath their chin [vocal sac] in contrast the adult females will have a much tighter
4
vocal sac. If the female is gravid a cluster of eggs should be visible underneath her
abdomen area or on the sides of her torso). The frogs' body mass was recorded after
voiding the bladder then blotting dry its body surface moisture with sheet of Kimwipe®
tissue and weighing it to 0.Olg on a Mettler PE 3600 electronic balance.
After each of the frog was measured, they were placed inside individually labeled
42 oz plastic container (10.5 -14.4 x 10.5 -14.4 x 8.8 cm) containing 6 ml of distilled water
and a folded tissue (11.4 x 21.3 cm) sheet. After 24 hours, the frogs were transferred into
individual mesh cages (4.5 x 4.5 x 5 cm) (Teflon, Chemware PTFE laboratory matting,
Saint - Gobain Performance Plastic, Seattle, WA) for treatment.
Randomization
Prior to the exposure trials the frogs were randomly assigned to one of the
treatment groups using a randomization computer program (random- number generator)
called RANDSEL (Sugihara 1997). RANSDEL was programmed to assign the frogs
uniformly by their body mass to minimize body mass variation as a possible covariate in
the influence of the frog's health status when exposed to the chemical.
Chemicals
Four product grades of sodium bicarbonate powder were tested in this study:
USP #1 powder, USP #2 fine granular, USP #5 course granular, and Industrial powder.
Distilled water was used as a negative control group and citric acid and hydrated lime
were used as positive control groups to compare frog mortality (Table 1). For sodium
bicarbonate a total of seven powders and four solutions of varying concentrations were
tested (Table 2.)
Chemical application
5
Once the frogs were placed inside their individual mesh cages, the correct amount
of powder or solution was applied directly onto the frog's dorsal surface. Application
rates for the powders were converted from Ibs per acre to grams per cm (Table 3).
Before and after treatment exposure the mesh cages containing the frogs were kept inside
a plastic container (3.45 x 41.5 x 1.8 cm) containing 100 ml of distilled water and 5
folded paper towels (24.5 x 13 cm) sheet to maintain a moist environment.
Powders
A pistol grip blow gun (Model HDA50400AV; Husky Co., Pacific, MO)
connected to an air compressor (Model D55I68; DeWalt Industrial Tool C., Baltimore,
MD) was used to administer the chemical powder onto the frogs. The tip of the blow gun
was connected to a piece of tygon vacuum tubing which was also connected to a
polypropylene check valve. A 2.5 cm diameter filter washer (chemical holding tray) was
then connected onto the check valve before blowing the chemical onto the frogs (Figure
1). Before administering the chemical powder onto the frogs, the correct amount of
powder was placed inside the filter washer and weighed (0.0001 g) using a Sartorius CP
124S electronic balance. A glass globe (surface area 78.54 cm was used to shield the
area surrounding the mesh cage as the powder was applied onto the frog (Figure 2).
Quality assurance trials showed that this application technique evenly distributed the
powder onto the bottom of the glass globe surface.
Solutions
For solutions, 1.0 ml of the appropriate concentration was administered on the
dorsal surface of the frogs using a single channel pipette (Cat no. 4600100; Finnpipette,
Thermo Electron Corp. Vantaa, Finland). The solution was applied through the top of the
6
mesh cage, which was then tapped to remove excess liquid. Once the treatment had been
applied to all the frogs in the treatment group, the mesh cages with the frogs were placed
back inside their plastic observation container.
All solution concentrations were calculated and expressed on a weight to volume
basis. Thus, a 20 % solution would have 20 g of solute, mixed with water to produce a
final solution of 100 ml. In cases where all of the solution was not fully dissolved, the
concentration of the slurry was calculated in a similar manner.
Post - treatment observation
During the powder trials the frog health status was recorded 15, 30, 60 minutes
and 24 hours after initial exposure. Mortality was defined by the frog's losing its ability
to right itself. Any survivors were euthanized after 24 hours except for trials with
extended observation periods.
We conducted a longer post- treatment observation period of four days for the
most effective slurry solution. After the first 24 hours the frogs were taken out of their
treatment mesh cages and placed in a clean observation container. Everyday each
container received approximately 3 -4 pin head sized crickets per frog and feeding
observations were recorded. The frogs were also transferred to another clean observation
container after two days.
Data Analysis
Descriptive statistics of application rate, concentration solution, frog health status,
time of death, and percent mortality were performed using SAS 9.1® (SAS Institute
2003).
7
RESULTS
Sodium Bicarbonate Powders
A total of 470 individual coqui frogs were exposed to one of the four grades of
sodium bicarbonate powders. Of those four, two powders were highly effective on the
frogs 24 hours after initial exposure: USP #1 and USP #2. Both grades had 95%
mortality after 24 hours at an application rate of 400 lbs per acre (Table 4). USP #1, the
finest grade of the four powders, showed a slightly higher percent mortality within the
different observation periods 15, 30 and 60 minutes compared to USP # 2 (Table 5). In
comparison, there were no mortalities in the control group while 16% citric acid solution
had an average of 97% mortality and at 200 lbs per acre hydrated lime powder had 95%
mortality.
Sodium Bicarbonate Solutions
A total of 157 individual coqui frogs were used for testing the solution forms of
sodium bicarbonate. Of the four sodium bicarbonate grades a 25% concentration slurry
solution of USP #1 was the lowest concentration resulting in 89% mortality both 24 hours
and 4 days after initial exposure (Table 6).
No mortalities occurred in the control group, 16% citric acid solution had an
average of 98% mortality, and 3% hydrated lime solution had 8% mortality after 24
hours. Hydrated lime was the only treatment that showed an increase in percent mortality
after 48 hours of initial exposure. Percent mortality increases from 20% after 24 hours to
80% after 48 hours (Table 6).
In the longer post - treatment observation trial all the frogs that were transferred to
a new observation container fed and behaved similar to the frogs that were in the control
8
group except for the hydrated lime group as stated above. No signs of irritation or
sluggishness were observed throughout the four days.
Discussion
When comparing the powder application rates and solution concentrations of all
four sodium bicarbonate product grades, USP #1, the finest of all the powders and the
least expensive powder ($24.30 per 100 lbs) had the highest percent mortality of coqui
frogs in our laboratory trials (Table 7). A powder application rate of 400 lbs per acre and
a 25% concentration solution were the lowest tested levels to show a mortality rate of
>80% 24 hours after initial exposure.
When the frogs were initially treated with either application method (powder or
solution),.only the frogs that were treated with the powder displayed a slight irritation
reaction (rubbing of eyes and jumping). This irritation behavior was seen in frogs treated
with application rates between 250 and 500 lbs per acre.
To better assess how well sodium bicarbonate USP #1 would work in the field we
recommend a field assessment of the effectiveness of sodium bicarbonate as a coqui
control agent both as a dust application of 400 pounds per acre and a spray application of
25% concentration solution, as well as an evaluation of non - target impacts.
We also advise that a dust application would be more advantageous than a slurry
solution spray because of its lower cost and less extensive labor required. The
approximate cost of treating one acre with USP #1 powder applied at 400 lbs per acre
would be $97, compared to a 25% slurry solution of the same powder, which would cost
$500 (if 1000 gallons per acre were used). The cost of treating one acre with 16% citric
acid solution at the same rate would cost approximately $1180.
9
LITERATURE CITED
Beard, K. H. 2007. Diet of the invasive frog, Eleutherodactylus coqui, in Hawaii. Copeia
2007, 281 -291.
Beard, K. H., and W. C. Pitt. 2005. Potential consequences of the coqui frog invasion in
Hawaii. Diversity and Distributions. 11:427 -433.
Beard, K. H., and W. C. Pitt. 2006. Potential predators of an invasive frog
Eleutherodactylus coqui in Hawaii rain forests. Journal of Tropical Ecology.
22(4):345 -347.
Campbell, E. W. 2002a. Dermal toxicity of selected agricultural pesticides,
Pharmaceutical products, and household chemicals to introduced
Eleutherodactylus frogs in Hawaii. Rep. No. QA -693.
USDA /APHIS /WS/NWRC, Hilo, Hawaii.
Campbell, E. W. 2002b. Field efficacy trials of the directed spray application of caffeine
solutions for controlling introduced Eleutherodactylus frogs in floriculture and
nursery crops in Hawaii. Rep. No. QA -846. USDA /APHIS /WS/NWRC, Hilo,
Hawaii.
Kraus, F., and Campbell, E. W. 2002. Human - mediated escalation of a formerly
eradicable problem: the invasion of Caribbean frogs in the Hawaiian Islands.
Biological Invasion, 4: 327 -332
Pitt, W. C. and Doratt, R. 2006a. Efficacy of hydrated lime on Eleutherodactylus coqui
and an operational field- application assessment on the effects on non - target
invertebrate organisms Rep. No. QA -1208 and 1264. USDA /APHIS /WS/NWRC,
Hilo, Hawaii.
Pitt, W. C. and Doratt, R. 2006b. Screening for the evaluation of selected chemicals and
pesticides to control Eleutherodactylus frogs in Hawaii. Rep. No. QA -1208.
USDA /APHIS /WS/NWRC, Hilo, Hawaii.
Pitt, W. C. and Doratt, R. 2006c. Field efficacy trials of spray application of Thionex
3EC solution for controlling the introduced frog Eleutherodactylus coqui in
floriculture and nursery crops in Hawaii. QA -1208. USDA /APHIS / WS/NWRC,
Hilo, Hawaii.
Pitt, W. C., Higashi, M., Swift, R., and Doratt, R. 2008. Phytotoxicity of 16% citric acid
solution on native Hawaiian plants under greenhouse conditions QA -1331.
USDA /APHIS /WS/NWRC, Hilo, Hawaii.
10
Pitt, W. C. and Sin, H. 2004a. Dermal toxicity of citric acid based pesticides to
introduced Eleutherodactylus frogs in Hawaii. Rep. No. QA -992.
USDA /APHIS /WS/NWRC, Hilo, Hawaii.
Pitt, W. C. and Sin, H. 20046. Field efficacy and invertebrate nontarget hazard
assessment of citric acid spray application for control of introduced
Eleutherodactylus frogs in Hawaii. Rep. No. QA -1048.
USDA /APHIS / WS/NWRC, Hilo, Hawaii.
Ruibal, R. 1962. The adaptive value of bladder water in the toad, Bufo cognatus.
Physiological Zoology, 35: 218 -223.
SAS, 9.1, 2004, SAS Institute, Inc., Cary, North Carolina
Sugihara, T., S. 1997. RANDSEL: Randomly selecting and assigning animals to
treatment groups. Wildlife Society Bulletin, 25: 183 -184
Woolbright, L. 1989. Sexual dimorphism in Eleutherodactylus coqui: selection pressure
and growth rates. Herpetologica. 45: 68 -74.
Woolbright, L., Hara, A. H., Jacobsen, C. M., Mautz, W. J., Benevides, F. J. 2006.
Population Densities of the Coqui, Eleutherodactylus coqui (Anura:
Leptodactlylidae) in Newly Invaded Hawaii and in Native Puerto Rico. Journal of
Herpetology. 40: 122 -126.
11
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Figure 1. Chemical powder applicator pistol grip blow gun attached to tygon vacuum
tubing, polypropylene check valve and filter washer.
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Figure 2. Drawing of the powder application process. Blow gun, treatment mesh cage
with frog, and glass globe. Surface area of glass globe 78.54 cm
12
Table 1. Chemical reference of products tested.
•
Chemical CAS Batch No. Manufacture Grade
Sodium Bicarbonate USP No. 1 144 -55 -8 0000822151 FMC Corporation, Philadelphia, PA Powdered
Sodium Bicarbonate USP No. 2 144 -55 -8 0000775731 FMC Corporation, Philadelphia, PA Fine
Granular
Sodium Bicarbonate USP No. 5 144 -55 -8 0000784698 FMC Corporation, Philadelphia, PA Course
Granular
USP Powdered No. 5 144 -55 -8 0000786290 FMC Corporation, Philadelphia, PA Industrial
Citric acid anhydrous 77 -92 -9 A7129 BEI, Hilo , H1 Granular
Calcium Hydroxide (hydrated lime) 1305 -62 -0 na Ash Grove, Portland, OR Powder
Distilled Water na na Longs Drug Store, Hilo, HI na
Notes: *EPA Reg No.
Table 2. Sodium bicarbonate powder and concentration solution formulations.
Formulation Application rate(Ibs /acre) Formulation Percent concentration
application (1 ml)
Powder 100 Liquid 8
Powder 150 Liquid 12
Powder 200 Liquid 20
Powder 250 Liquid 25
Powder 300
Powder 400
Powder 500
•
13
Table 3. Sodium bicarbonate powder application rate conversions from pounds per acre to grams per cm
Application rate (Ibs /acre) Application rate (g/cm
100 0.0880
150 0.1319
200 0.1759
250 0.2199
300 0.2647
400 0.3526
500 0.4406
Notes: *Surface area treated (bottom of glass globe) 78.54 cm
14
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Table 6. Sodium Bicarbonate percent concentration solutions, time of death, and percent mortality.
15 minutes 30 minutes 1 hour after 24 hour after
Treatment groups after treatment aftertreatment treatment treatment
Distilled water (1 ml) 0 of 37 (0 %) 0 of 37 (0 %) 0 of 37 (0 %) 0 of 37 (0 %)
16% Citric acid (1 ml) 24 of 40 (60 %) 35 of 40 (88 %) 38 of 40 (85 %) 39 of 40 (98 %)
3% Hydrated lime (1 ml) 0 of 40 (0 %) 0 of 40 (0 %) 0 of 40 (0 %) 3 of 40 (8 %)*
8% Sodium Bicarbonate USP #1 powder (1 ml) 0 of 10 (0 %) 0 of 10 (0 %) 0 of 10 (0 %) 2 of 10 (20 %)
8% Sodium Bicarbonate USP #2 fine granular (1 ml) 0 of 10 (0 %) 0 of 10 (0 %) 0 of 10 (0 %) 3 of 10 (30 %)
8% Sodium Bicarbonate USP #5 course granular (1 ml) 0 of 10 (0 %) 0 of 10 (0 %) 0 of 10 (0 %) 3 of 10 (30 %).
8% Sodium Bicarbonate Industrial powder (1 ml) 0 of 10 (0 %) 0 of 10 (0 %) 0 of 10 (0 %) 2 of 10 (20 %)
12% Sodium Bicarbonate Industrial powder (1 ml) 0 of 19 (0 %) 0 of 19 (0 %) 5 of 19 (26 %) 11 of 19 (58 %)**
20% Sodium Bicarbonate USP #1 powder (1 ml) 0 of 19 (0 %) 4 of 19 (21%) 13 of 19 (68 %) 15 of 19 (79 %)
20% Sodium Bicarbonate USP #2 fine granular (1 ml) 0 of 20 (0 %) 1 of 20 (5 %) 11 of 20 (55 %) 15 of 20 (75%)
20% Sodium Bicarbonate USP #5 course granular (1 ml) 0 of 20 (0 %) 7 of 20 (35 %) 13 of 20 (65 %) 16 of 20 (80%)
20% Sodium Bicarbonate Industrial powder (1 ml) 0 of 20 (0 %) 2 of 20 (10 %) 8 of 20 (40 %) 14 of 20 (70 %)
25% Sodium Bicarbonate Industrial powder (1 ml) 0 of 19 (0 %) 9 of 19 (47 %) 12 of 19 (63 %) 17 of 19 (89 %)**
Note: *3% Hydrated lime percent mortality increases from 20% after 24 hours to 80% after 48 hours
* *No change in mortality after 4 days after initial application.
Table 7. Chemical cost comparisons.
Product Cost
Sodium Bicarbonate USP #1 powder $24.30 per 100 lbs
Sodium Bicarbonate USP #2 fine granular $24.85 per 100 lbs
Sodium Bicarbonate USP #5 course granular $34.30 per 100 Ibs
Sodium Bicarbonate, Industrial powder $22.75 per 100 Ibs
Calcium hydroxide powder $9.05 per 35 Ibs
16% Citric acid solution $44.20 per 50 Ibs
Notes: Cost of sodium bicarbonate quoted by FMC chemical products 2/26/08.
Cost of Citric acid, hydrated lime, & sodium bicarbonate quoted by BEI, Hawaii 2/26/08
•
16
r j + S } k ✓a a 6 d` ,r �, ' n� ' �, May 15, 2008
(CA Fish & Game Commission
`
Species Restriction Regulations)
SEVEN SPECIES ADDED TO
RESTRICTION LIST IN CALIFORNIA
The Issue.
The California Fish & Game Commission has added seven new species and two genera to California's
restricted list for importation, transportation or possession. The new restrictions went into effect April 12,
2008.
The Impact.
The following species and genera have been added to a list of restricted animals for import, transport or
possession without a Department of Fish and Game issued permit:
• Large -scale silver carp;
• Black carp;
• Barramundi;
• Non - native abalone;
• Watersnake;
• Coqui frog;
• Channeled apple snail; and
• Mute swan.
The following is a partial list of other restricted animals that have been listed as unlawful to import,
transport or possess live specimens without a permit that we find particularly noteworthy to the pet trade:
• Starlings and Mynahs
o EXEMPTIONS: Starling, Hill mynahs and Rothchild's mynah;
• Madagascar weaver;
• Baya weaver;
• Queleas -All species;
• Waxbills, Munias, Ricebirds;
• Java sparrow;
• Red - whiskered bulbul;
• Whiteeyes -All species;
• Monk or Quaker parakeet;
• Hedgehogs;
• Hamsters, Field Mice, Voles, Muskrats, Gerbils, Squirrels, Chipmunks, Woodchucks, and Prairie
Dogs
- - 5
o EXEMPTIONS: Domesticated races of Golden Hamsters of the species Mesocricetus
auratus and domesticated races of Dwarf Hamsters of the Genus Phodopus; Domesticated
races of Rats or Mice (white or albino; trained, dancing or spinning, laboratory- reared);
Domesticated races of Guinea Pigs of the species Cavia porcellus; and Domesticated
races of Chinchillas of the species Chinchilla laniger;
• Bufo marinus, Bufo paracnemis, Bufo horribilis (Giant toad or marine toad group) and all other
large toads from Mexico and Central and South America);
• Characins (Astyanax fasciatus (Banded tetra));
• Piranhas;
• Tiger fish;
• Pike killifish;
• Snakeheads;
• Banded Tilapia;
• Redbelly tilapia
o Permits may be issued to a person or agency for importation, transportation, or
possession in the counties of San Bernardino, Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San
Diego, and Imperial;
• Blue tilapia;
• Nile tilapia;
• Crocodiles, Caimans, Alligators and Gavials;
• Snapping Turtles; and
• All species of Crayfish
o EXEMPTIONS: Procambarus clarkiiand Orconectes virilis.
Recommended Action.
Please be aware of the above - listed restrictions. This is not the entire list, but ones we find most
important to the pet industry. The newest restrictions were implemented on April 12, 2008. If these are
species or genera that affect you or your business, please make sure you have obtained the appropriate
permits from the Fish and Game Commission. Also, it is important to note that some cities and counties
may prohibit possession or require a permit for these and other species not requiring a state permit, so be
sure to check your county's guidelines.
If you have any questions or concerns about the new or existing restrictions contact Susan Ellis, Invasive
Species Coordinator, Fish and Game Commission, 1416 Ninth St., Box 944209, Sacramento, CA 94244-
2090, telephone 916- 653 -9767.
If you have further questions, or wish to express your views to PIJAC, you may contact Michael Maddox
by phone at 202 - 452 -1525 or via email at mmaddoxc pilac.org.
Not Yet a PIJAC Member?
For more than thirty -five years, the Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council (PIJAC) has ensured the
prosperity of the pet industry. To learn more about PIJAC, please visit our website at www.pijac.org.
For further information, please send an e-mail to membersApiiac.org or phone 1- 800 -553 -PETS (1 -800-
553- 7387). •
Our Business IS Your Business. PIJAC: Keeping You in Business.
2
TITLE 14. Fish and Game Commission
Notice of Proposed Changes in Regulations
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Fish and Game Commission (Commission), pursuant to the
authority vested by Sections 2118 and 2120, Fish and Game Code and to implement, interpret or make
specific Sections 1002, 2116, 2118, 2118.2, 2118.4, 2119, 2120, 2122, 2123, 2124, 2125, 2126, 2127,
2150, 2190, 2271, 3005.9 and 3005.92, Fish and Game Code, proposes to amend Section 671, Title 14,
California Code of Regulations, relating to Importation, Transportation, and Possession of Live Restricted
Species.
Informative Digest/Policy Statement Overview
This proposed regulation change would add seven species and two genera to the Restricted Animal List in
Section 671 of Title 14. The animals listed below are non - native invasive species. They pose a threat to
native fish and wildlife populations through competition for food, predation, alteration of habitats and /or as
potential sources of introducing diseases or parasites to native fish and wildlife.
Prevention is the most cost effective manner of managing these species, as control and eradication
projects are very costly once an invasive species is released and establishes in the wild. A number of
species and genera warrant addition to the Section 671 list in order to prevent their introduction into the
state's wildlands or control the spread of species that have already been introduced. Although several of
the species listed below are already known to exist in California, the control of these species is still
possible, and inclusion in the list of Restricted Animals identifies these species as a threat to native wildlife
and habitats. Once they are listed, partner agencies, like the Department of Food and Agriculture, have
authority to undertake control actions.
Proposed Taxa Not Yet Known in California
• Largescale silver carp (Hypophthalmichthys harmandi)
• Black carp (Mylopharyngodon piceus)
• Barramundi (Lates calcarifer)
• Abalone (all non - native species of genus Haliotis)
Proposed Taxa Already Present in California
• Watersnake (all species of genus Nerodia)
• Coqui frog (Eleutherdactylus cogw)
• Channeled apple snail (Pomacea canaliculata)
• Mute swan (Cygnus olor) (except for mute swans possessed before January 1, 2008)
The background information that follows provides some basic information about the species being
proposed for addition to the restricted species list and the threats that they pose to native fish and wildlife
resources.
Background
Largescale silver carp ( Hypophthalmichthys harmandi)
Until recently, this species was considered a subspecies of silver carp (H. molitrix), which is already on
California's restricted animal list (i.e. Section 671 list). The two fish are very similar plankton feeders with
potential to compete with native fish larvae and invertebrates, which in turn, are the food base for many
larger fish and wildlife species. Adding this newly split -off species to Section 671 essentially closes a
loophole that could be used to import animals that the Commission intended to restrict when Silver carp
was added to the list.
Black Carp (Mylopharyngodon piceus)
The natural range of black carp is drainages feeding into the Pacific Ocean in eastern Asia, including parts
of China, Russia and possibly northern Vietnam. They were originally introduced into the United States as
a "contaminant" in grass carp importations and were subsequently intentionally imported by fish farmers
for yellow grub control and as a food fish.
Black carp is a blackish -brown fish with blackish -grey fins and an elongated and laterally compressed
body. They can typically grow to more than 3 feet in length and weigh, on average, 33 pounds. Young
black carp are difficult to distinguish from young grass carp'(Ctenopharyngodon idella), another non- native
species. Adults may be distinguished externally by the color and the more cylindrical form of the body,
and internally by the pharyngeal teeth.
Black carp are molluscivores (mussel and snail feeders) but also eat freshwater shrimp, crawfish, and
insects. At all life stages, black carp will compete for food with native species. If introduced or
established, black carp are likely to have a considerable impact on native mussel and snail populations.
Native fish, turtles, birds, including waterfowl, and vertebrates, such as raccoons, otters, and muskrats,
are likely to be affected through competition for food. •
In addition to the threat of their predatory behavior and its resulting impacts, the black carp may also have
other impacts on our aquatic ecosystems including the transfer of pathogens and risk to threatened or
endangered native species through predation.
Barramundi (Lates calcarifer)
Barramundi are found in northern Australia and the Indo -West Pacific region. They are not currently
known to exist in California. At different life stages, barramundi move between salt and freshwater
• habitats. Mature animals are located in estuarine /coastal areas and older juveniles are found in the upper
reaches of rivers.
•
The fish are greenish- bronze along the back, silver along the sides, shading to white on their bellies.
Juveniles have creamy and dark blotches, and may have yellowish pelvic and tail fins. Most barramundi
start life as males, reaching maturity at around 3 -4 years of age and later change gender and become
females, usually at around age 5. They can reach weights of up to 132 pounds. Barramundi are predators
with a diet of fish and crustaceans.
The breeding and rearing of barramundi commenced in the early 1980's and has resulted in the
development of a significant aquaculture industry both in Australia and in South East Asia (including
temperate areas such as South Australia). An area of particular concern in the farming of barramundi is
the occurrence of an associated virus (Nodavirus). Barramundi pose a threat to California's native
fisheries through predation, competition for food and transmission of diseases and parasites.
Watersnake (all species of the genus Nerodia)
There are 10 species and 15 subspecies that are currently recognized as belonging to the genus Nerodia.
They are all from North America, with their natural range occurring east of the Rocky Mountains and
south into Mexico. Three isolated occurrences are known to currently exist in California in the cities of
Folsom, Sacramento Co; Roseville, Placer Co., and the community of Harbor City, Los Angeles Co.
These populations are thought to have started from pets that were released.
The coloration of these snakes varies, but most individuals have earth - tone background coloration with
lighter - colored crossbands running the length of the snake. Most individuals feature a dark stripe from eye
to angle of jaw. It is common for Nerodia to become darker as they grow, and larger individuals may be
completely black. They are generalist, mid -level carnivores, primarily eating amphibians and fish. The
snakes themselves are prey for larger wading birds and raptors. This species has a high rate of
reproduction and has developed a substantial population in Folsom over a relatively short period of time.
The concern is that Nerodia will impact native fish and wildlife populations through predation and
competition. Of particular concern is the potential for impacts to the Sacramento -area populations of giant
garter snake (Thamnophis gigas), which is state and federally listed as threatened.
Coqui frog (Eleutherdactylus coqur)
Coqui frogs are native to Puerto Rico and have become a serious pest in Hawaii, where the populations
are very dense and the calling noises are considered an auditory disturbance to residents and tourists.
They survive in warm, moist environments that might be encountered in gardens and greenhouses in
Southern California. They nest in cavities and do not require standing water to complete their life cycle.
They are imported accidentally, typically with shipments of ornamental tropical plants and are also in the
pet trade.
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•
Coqui frog is a brown or gray -brown frog that is 1.25 -2.25 inches long. Its eyes are gold, golden- brown, or
brown, and it has toe disks (toepads) for climbing. The markings on the back of coqui frogs vary from no
pattern, to one or two broad cream stripes, v- shaped marks, spots, botches, or an ill - defined pale band or
"M" between the shoulders. The call of male coqui is a loud "ko -KEE"
There is potential for suitable habitat for this species to increase in Southern California due to climate
change. So far, they have only been reported from one site in Southern California. If established in
California, they may compete with small native predators such as birds, reptiles and amphibians for insect
prey.
Channeled apple snail (Pomacea canaliculata)
The channeled apple snail is native to a large portion of South America and has become established in the
southern parts of the continental United States and Hawaii. It is tolerant of a wide range of salinities and
temperatures. It has the ability to forage both in and out of water through the use of a gill and a lung. This
species is sold in the pet and aquarium trade.
The size of channeled apple snails varies from approximately 1.5 to 2.5 inches wide and approximately
1.75 - 3 inches high depending on the conditions. The color varies completely yellow and green (cultivated
forms) to brown with or without dark spiral bands (wild form). The channeled apple snail is easily
distinguished from other apple snails by the pink egg mass laid above the surface of the water away from
predatory fish.
The channeled apple snail is a host for the parasitic rat lung worm (Angiostrongylus cantonensis), which
can infect humans. The channeled apple snail has a voracious appetite for plants, including aquatic and
terrestrial vegetation. It can cause a great deal of damage to aquatic habitat, ornamental plants, and
agricultural crops, including rice.
Abalone (all non - native species of genus Haliotis)
The genus Haliotis has a worldwide distribution. The family has unmistakable characteristics: the shell is
rounded to oval, with two to three whorls, and the last one auriform, grown into a large "ear ", giving rise to
the common name 'ear-shell'. The body whorl has a series of holes — four to ten depending on the
species, near the anterior margin. Abalones reach maturity at a relatively small size. Their fecundity is
high and increases with size (from 10,000 to 11 million eggs at a time). The adults are herbivores and
feed on macroalgae. Their sizes vary from about 0.75 inches (Haliotis pulcherrima) to about 8 inches or
more (Haliotis rufescens) in length.
Under current regulations mollusks destined to terminal food or hobby aquarium markets are specifically
exempted from the need for an importation permit, provided that they are not intended to be placed into
waters of the state, or waters that are discharged to waters of the state. Effectively, there is no control
over importation and other operational practices of abalone importers.
Mass mortalities of wild and cultured abalone have recently occurred in various locations worldwide, and
have been shown to be caused by viruses that potentially could infect some or all of California's eight
abalone species. None of these viruses are known to occur in California or elsewhere in the Eastern
Pacific. Native abalone populations at risk include recovering Southern and Central California populations
•
(including a federal ESA - listed species), North Coast red abalone populations and those held at a variety
of commercial farms and restoration - related culture facilities statewide. Associated activities that could be
impacted include the North coast recreational fishery, commercial abalone farming, a potential San Miguel
Island commercial fishery, and restoration activities.
Abalone disease agents could contact waters of the state via holding infected abalone at facilities or
restaurants in marine settings that illegally discharge water from on -site tanks, through unintentional
escapement and through ritual release of abalone directly into state waters. Although the potential for
exposure of native abalone to foreign pathogens via these routes is relatively low, the potential impact is
extremely high.
Preventing exposure is the most cost effective method of disease management. This requires control over
3
the non - native abalone importation process, both for non - native abalone initially entering California and
non - native abalone that is being transported and held at various locations within the state. Including the
non - native species of the genus, Haliotis, in the restricted animal list is an appropriate and straightforward
means of achieving the necessary regulatory control. It will also incidentally provide documentation could
be useful in controlling an outbreak of disease, should that occur.
Mute Swan (Cygnus olor)
Mute swans are native to Europe and Asia, and were successfully introduced into North America in the
early 1900's. Feral mute swans inhabit mostly estuary and marsh habitats throughout their range in North
America and locally, have been found to be reproducing in the Petaluma Marsh region. In 2007, DFG
staff observed feral mute swans in the Suisun Marsh region.
They are best distinguished from North American swans by the knob at the base of the upper bill, and the
color of the bill itself, which is orange, with the tip and base colored black. Also, mute swans hold their
necks in a curved position while swimming, while tundra swans hold their necks straight up. Another
difference between these two species is that the tundra swan population is migratory, while mute -swans
are mostly non- migratory.
Since swan species feed primarily on submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV hereafter), they have the ability
to reduce SAV by 95% in introduced areas. Adult mute swans consume 35 -43% of their weight on a daily
basis. In addition, feeding behavior causes uprooting and damage to other plant species. These types of
impacts reduce the carrying capacity of habitat for wintering and breeding waterbirds and waterfowl.
Reductions in SAV have also been documented to result in decreased habitat and populations for fish,
shellfish, and macroinvertebrates.
Furthermore, mute swans are highly aggressive and do not socially aggregate with other species during
winter. Due to their size and aggressiveness, mute swans are capable of injuring people and attacks on
humans have been documented.
Proposal Overview
Currently in California, it is legal to import, transport or possess the animals described above. The
Department requests the Commission consider the proposed amendments to Section 671 to add the
above six species and two genera to the list of restricted species.
If this change is adopted, it would be unlawful to import, transport, or possess alive individuals of these
animals except under a permit issued by the Department, although for one species (mute swans) existing
specimens in captivity would be allowed without permit. This section contains the list of restricted species
that are unlawful for any person to import, export, transport, maintain, dispose or use except as authorized
in a permit issued by the department.
Regulatory control over these animals is needed because they pose a threat to native fish and wildlife
populations through competition for food, predation, alteration of habitats and /or as potential sources of
introducing diseases or parasites to native fish and wildlife.
Other non - substantive revisions for simplification and clarity purposes are proposed. In Subsection
671(c)(1)(I), lines 1. and 2. are replaced by "all species (D)" for simplification. In Subsection 671(c)(5)(A),
"the species" is removed from the beginning of lines 1. and 2. for clarity.
NOTICE IS GIVEN that any person interested may present statements, orally or in writing, relevant to this
action at a hearing to be held at the Crowne Plaza, Cedar Room, 45 John Glenn Drive,'Concord,
California on Friday, October 12, 2007, at 8:30 a.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard.
NOTICE IS GIVEN that any person interested may present statements, orally or in writing, relevant to this
action at a hearing to be held at the California Resources Building, First Floor Auditorium, 1416 9th Street,
Sacramento, California on Friday, November 2, 2007, at 8:30 a.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter
may be heard.
4
NOTICE IS ALSO GIVEN that any person interested may present statements, orally or in writing, relevant
to this action at a hearing to be held at the Department of Education, State Board Room, 1430 N. Street,
Room 1101, Sacramento, California on Friday, December 7, 2007, at 8:30 a.m., or as soon thereafter as
the matter may be heard. It is requested, but not required, that written comments be submitted on or
before November 26, 2007, at the address given below, or by fax at (916) 653 -5040, or by e-mail to
FGC @fgc.ca.gov. Written comments mailed, faxed or e- mailed to the Commission office, must be
received before 5:00 p.m. on December 4, 2007. All comments must be received no later than
December 7, 2007, at the hearing in Sacramento, CA. If you would like copies of any modifications to this
proposal, please include your name and mailing address.
The regulations as proposed in strikeout - underline format, as well as an initial statement of reasons,
including environmental considerations and all information upon which the proposal is based (rulemaking •
file), are on file and available for public review from the agency representative, John Carlson, Jr.,
Executive Director, Fish and Game Commission, 1416 Ninth Street, Box 944209, Sacramento, California
94244 -2090, phone (916) 653 -4899. Please direct requests for the above mentioned documents and
inquiries concerning the regulatory process to Shawn Cubbage at the preceding address or phone
number. Susan R. Ellis, Invasive Species Coordinator, phone (916) 653 -9767, has been designated
to respond to questions on the substance of the proposed regulations. Copies of the Initial
Statement of Reasons, including the regulatory language, may be obtained from the address above.
Notice of the proposed action shall be posted on the Fish and Game Commission website at
http://www.fgc.ca.gov.
Availability of Modified Text
If the regulations adopted by the Commission differ from but are sufficiently related to the action proposed,
they will be available to the public for at least 15 days prior to the date of adoption. Any person interested
may obtain a copy of said regulations prior to the date of adoption by contacting the agency representative
named herein.
If the regulatory proposal is adopted, the final statement of reasons may be obtained from the address
above when it has been received from the agency program staff.
Impact of Regulatory Action
The potential for significant statewide adverse economic impacts that might result from the proposed
regulatory action has been assessed, and the following initial determinations relative to the required
statutory categories have been made:
Impact of Regulatory Action:
The potential for significant statewide adverse economic impacts that might result from the proposed
regulatory action has been assessed, and the following initial determinations relative to the required
statutory categories have been made:
(a) Significant Statewide Adverse Economic Impact Directly Affecting Businesses, Including the
• Ability of California Businesses to Compete with Businesses in Other States:
The proposed action will not have a significant statewide adverse economic impact directly
affecting business, including the ability of California businesses to compete with businesses in
other states.
The proposed action is necessary for the continued preservation of the resource and therefore
the prevention of adverse economic impacts.
(b) Impact on the Creation or Elimination of Jobs Within the State, the Creation of New
Businesses or the Elimination of Existing Businesses, or the Expansion of Businesses in
California:
5
None.
(c) Cost Impacts on a Representative Private Person or Business:
The agency is not aware of any cost impacts that a representative private person or business
would necessarily incur in reasonable compliance with the proposed action.
(d) Costs or Savings to State Agencies or Costs /Savings in Federal Funding to the State:
None.
(e) Other Nondiscretionary Costs /Savings to Local Agencies:
None.
(f) Programs Mandated on Local Agencies or School Districts:
None.
(g) Costs Imposed to Any Local Agency or School District that is Required
to be Reimbursed Under Part 7 (commencing with Section 17500) of Division 4:
None.
(h) Effect on Housing Costs:
None.
Effect on Small Business
It has been determined that the adoption of these regulations may affect small business.
Consideration of Alternatives
The Commission must determine that no reasonable alternative considered by the Commission, or that
has otherwise been identified and brought to the attention of the Commission, would be more effective in
carrying out the purpose for which the action is proposed or would be as effective and less burdensome to
affected private persons than the proposed action.
FISH AND GAME COMM ISSION
•
John Carlson, Jr.
Dated: September 25, 2007 Executive Director
6