• State officials are inventorying all exotic plant species. This collection includes about 
130 species, of which approximately 20 are expected to be a problem. Of these 20, only 
a few are found in riparian areas. 
• Statewide northern pike management plan, which was expected to be completed by the 
end of 2006 by AK DFG, and the Upper Susitna/Copper River Pike Surveys to determine 
how widespread pike are in the area. 
• Ballast water-related research will be funded in FY07/08 by NOAA Sea Grant and 
administered by AK DFG. 
• Risk assessment for aquatic sea lice will be funded in FY07/08 by NOAA Sea Grant and 
administered by AK DFG. 
• Ongoing shore zone mapping research will characterize the physical and biological 
attributes of each section of the shoreline. 
• Activities also include ranking the invasiveness of non-native animals and fish. 
A.3.6. RESEARCH NEEDS 
• New and improved pike control techniques are needed. Ideally, a piscicide would work 
best. Options to control pike are currently limited to netting and four approved chemicals 
(Rotenone, antimycin, TFM, and Bayluscide). 
• Alaskan AIS management would benefit from the development of aquaculture systems 
that will prevent salmon escape. 
• Additional knowledge about the speed at which green crabs are entering the state is 
needed. In general, this species moves slowly, but officials must learn more about its 
migration in order to determine the scope of any potential problems. 
• In order to address the migration of green crabs, Alaska needs to develop pheromones 
and trapping methods. Green crab trapping methods also require more in-depth research 
that addresses questions such as: Is it possible to develop techniques to trap them out 
completely? What are the best techniques for managing them at a low level, with 
compounds that will attract them quickly into traps? Also, what is the ideal type of trap? 
• Research on the locations of green crabs could also provide the state with a better 
understanding of the species’ different ecological needs. 
• The mechanisms for how reed canary grass affects water quality need to be better 
understood. 
• To prevent invasion of colonial tunicates, pathways need to be better understood. 
A-18 
