Introducing Copi as a Positive Path Toward Combatting Invasive Carps in North America

A group of loosely related, large-bodied fishes collectively called carps have had a complex relationship with North Americans. Despite lessons learned about invasive Common Carp Cyprinus carpio in the early 1900s, Bighead Carp Hypophthalmichthys nobilis, Black Carp Mylopharyngodon piceus, Grass Carp Ctenopharyngodon idella, and Silver Carp H. molitrix were introduced to the United States more than 50 years ago and are expanding throughout the Mississippi River basin. Increased economic value in the North American seafood market could aid management. Complete eradication through harvest is unlikely, but controlling densities and containing dispersal may be possible. Improving perceptions of nutrition, palatability, and safety of wild-caught carps should increase consumer demand. A branding and marketing effort launched in June 2022 renamed the foodstuff produced from the four species as the trademarked brand Copi. The “Choose Copi: Eat Well. Do Good.” campaign allows consumers to know that these fishes are an environmentally sound and responsible alternative to other seafood choices. The Copi brand has gained interest nationwide, with food processors and distributors engaged, although the contribution of Copi to harvest removal from rivers and resulting population dynamics is yet to be quantified. Developing a regional fishing industry for Copi, while also aiding fisheries and aquaculture for native species, remains an economic and logistical challenge within the vast river network.