What Ontario is doing

To prevent this unwanted invader from coming into the province, Ontario has regulated Ide (Leuciscus idus) as a prohibited invasive species under the Invasive Species Act.

Learn about the Invasive Species Act and regulations.

Background

Ide, also known as orfe, are a full-bodied freshwater fish from the family Cyprinidae(minnows and carps). They are typically found in slow-moving clear freshwater with vegetation including lakes, rivers and ponds. Ide can tolerate a broad range of temperature and salinity conditions. Their ability to survive in many environmental conditions means they can easily establish in new places and increases the risk of their invasion.

Though no longer allowed for sale in Ontario, Ide are popular in some areas as ornamental fish for ponds or aquaria. This can lead to their introduction if intentionally or accidentally released into local waterways.

Range

Ide is native to Northern Europe and Western Asia.

It has been introduced widely across the United States, but the status of established populations is unclear.

Ide has not been found in Canada or anywhere within the Great Lakes basin.

View an up-to-date distribution map of Ide.

Impacts

Ide can outcompete native fish for food, resources and space leading to declines in native fish populations and the loss of biodiversity. They can also introduce and spread diseases and parasites that can negatively affect native species.

How to Identify

  • Ide has a moderately deep body with an arched back and bluntly rounded head.
  • The average length is about 40 centimetres, although it can grow up to 60 to 80 centimetres in length.
  • The colouration of the Ide varies, but it generally has a silvery sheen on its sides, fading to a white or pale yellow on its belly.
  • The dorsal fin (top fin on its back) is positioned toward the back of the body, and the caudal fin (tail fin) is deeply forked.

What you need to know

  • Learn how to identify Ide and how to prevent the introduction or spread of this fish to local waterways.
  • It is illegal to import, deposit, release, possess, transport, propagate, buy, sell or trade Ide in Ontario.
  • Never buy or use ide as bait, for ornamental purposes in a pond, water garden, aquarium or for any other use.
  • Never release any live fish into Ontario waterbodies.

Reporting illegal activity

If you have any information about the illegal importation, distribution or sale of Ide, report it immediately to either:

If you’ve seen ide or another invasive species in the wild, please: