Mapping the landscape of live baitfish regulations for aquatic invasive species prevention in the United States

Aquatic invasive species (AIS) pose a significant risk to global ecosystems, economies, and societies. In the United States, the live baitfish trade is a major pathway for their spread. While the presence of invasive species and pathogens in this trade has been documented, a comprehensive, nationwide analysis of the regulations governing live baitfish has been lacking. This study fills that gap by systematically mapping state-level and federal regulations across the U.S. Our analysis reveals significant variations in regulatory strength. States in the western and northern regions generally have more robust regulations, with some imposing complete bans on live baitfish use. Conversely, many southern and eastern states have weaker regulations, leaving gaps that could facilitate the spread of AIS. These findings provide a crucial resource for policymakers and researchers to evaluate existing policies, identify weaknesses, and develop more effective strategies to address risks posed by aquatic invasive species.