Question

an area of georgia is having difficulties with an invasive species of catfish called the flathead catfish. these catfish were introduced to many areas of the united states during the 1960s as a popular recreational catch. with no natural predators, flathead catfish can grow to be three to four feet in length. this invasive species can often outcompete native fish. which solution would best help reduce the current number of flathead catfish in georgia?
a create a state law limiting the number of fish pulled out of the water each year and promoting the catch and release of flathead catfish.
b encourage fishermen to catch flathead catfish for sport and to turn in the fish for a reward.
c introducing a tax on sport fishermen to help prevent the catching of flathead catfish.
d teach younger generations the negative effects of releasing exotic pets into the environment.

Explanation:

• Option A: Limiting fish pulled out and promoting catch - and - release would not reduce the flathead catfish number. Catch - and - release would keep them in the water.
• Option B: Encouraging fishermen to catch flathead catfish for sport and turning them in for a reward would directly remove the invasive species from the water, reducing their population.
• Option C: Introducing a tax to prevent catching flathead catfish would not reduce their number. It would do the opposite of what is needed.
• Option D: Teaching about exotic pets is not relevant as flathead catfish were introduced as a recreational catch, not as exotic pets.

Answer:

B. Encourage fishermen to catch flathead catfish for sport and to turn in the fish for a reward.