The rise of goldfishes in North America

ABSTRACT Goldfish Carassius auratus is a longstanding global invader that has entered a new phase in its invasion history, spreading into new geographical areas and reaching larger body sizes and abundances than previously recorded. In this Perspective, we present evidence that C. auratus and other goldfishes Carassius spp. represent an increasing, yet overlooked, risk to North American freshwaters. We synthesize existing knowledge on the history, physiology, impacts, and current management of goldfishes in North America. We also identify knowledge gaps in our understanding of the biology of goldfishes as they relate to invasive species management and recommend interdisciplinary approaches for addressing the growing Goldfish problem in North America.