Giant 'Monster' Goldfish Infest Lake Tahoe Waters

It's not the Loch Ness monster that's causing issues for a certain freshwater lake, nor is it alien-like lampreys. Instead, researchers are worried about the infestation of giant goldfish that are currently lurking in the waters of Lake Tahoe.

The monster goldfish, which can grow almost 1.5 feet long, have been dumped into the lake by aquarium owners; unfortunately, it's unlikely that the fish are going to disappear any time soon.

Instead of dying off, the goldfish are thriving in their new environment. They're breeding at a rapid pace, and now researchers are worried that the invasive species could be negatively impacting the freshwater environment for native species.

It's not surprising that scientists are worried. Another fish, the lionfish, which was introduced into tropical waters by aquarium dumpers, has wreaked havoc on coral reefs. A vicious predator that has been known to extend its range all along the East coast during the summer months, the lionfish gobbles down native species by the dozen and as a result, has had high success when it comes to reproduction.

Like the lionfish, the giant goldfish also seem to be breeding rapidly. In order to keep Lake Tahoe as pristine as possible, a team of biologists patrol its waters throughout the year, according to National Geographic. Usually, they monitor invasive species like the largemouth bass; they use electric probes to stun the fish and then scoop them up with their nets to examine them. Sometimes, they can get as many as 200 fish in one scoop. Yet lately, they've not only seen the bass; they've also been seeing a bright, orange fish amidst the others--the giant goldfish.

Biologists were surprised that the creature actually existed. Christine Ngai of the University of Nevada, Reno, was one of the researchers that found the fish during a survey of the invasive fish species in the lake, according to KCRA. Although she had heard stories from fishing guides about the giant goldfish, she and her colleagues were the first to document the species. In an interview with KCRA Ngai said, "It's not your average-size goldfish. So, you're like, is that real? Oh, it's real. It's alive."

If the goldfish continue to breed and affect the ecosystem drastically, it may prompt officials to take measures that could stem the giant fish's spread.