Pennsylvania Sea Grant has launched a new online, interactive training app designed to help individuals identify aquatic invasive species (AIS). The app can also be used to report sightings of AIS to natural resources managers in real time. 

AIS are found throughout the Commonwealth's Lakes, rivers and streams, according to Pa. Sea Grant. Species include: fish, plants, reptiles and even algae or pathogens. 

AIS are often unknowingly spread from one body of water to another through outdoor activities like boating or fishing, or by aquarium pets being released. 

Once AIS are established, getting rid of them can be expensive and difficult.

Representatives from Pa. Sea Grant say the PA AIS app will help users learn more about commonly found aquatic invasive species and offers tools to accurately identify them. 

Users can also notify state conservation officials of the suspected species, location, and severity of the infestation through the app. 

More information on the PA AIS app can be found here.