In North America, where has the intentional introduction of the Wels catfish raised significant conservation flags regarding established ecosystems?
Answer
Around the Great Lakes region, particularly concerning Michigan's ecosystems.
Although the Wels catfish's historical distribution centered across Europe and Asia, intentional introduction for sport fishing has led to established populations in various European locales, but also concerning presence in North America. In the US, this species is monitored closely as a potential invasive threat, specifically noted in areas surrounding the Great Lakes basin. In particular, its presence in environments like Michigan has generated considerable concern among conservationists due to the potential negative impact on the pre-established, delicate native ecosystems already present there.
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