Introduced in 1973 to improve water quality in aquaculture (Ref. 86798). Escaped into open waters in Arkansas in the 1990s where it may compete with Ictiobus bubalus. Has not established in the USA based on 1984 report (Ref. 6029). Occurs now in at least 16 states and has established in the middle and lower Mississippi River basin from Iowa, Illinois, Indiana and Kentucky to Louisiana (Ref. 86798). In 2002, a $7 million electric barrier to prevent their passing from the Illinois River to Lake Michigan was constructed. Recorded from the Mississippi River and other major rivers in Arkansas and Missouri and the lower Ohio River (Ref. 10294). The species has rendered sections of the Missouri river nearly impassable (Ref. 48005). Feeds on phytoplankton. Jumps into boats with outboard motors, sometimes causing serious injuries to humans (Ref. 86798).