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Photo#689665
Spiny Water Flea - Bythotrephes longimanus - male - female

Spiny Water Flea - Bythotrephes longimanus - Male Female
Silver Bay, Lake/Cook County, Minnesota, USA
August 11, 2012
Spiny water fleas "caught" in Lake Superior. Any reason as to why they attached themselves to the fishing line?

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Spiny Water Flea - Bythotrephes longimanus - male - female Spiny Water Flea - Bythotrephes longimanus - male - female Spiny Water Flea - Bythotrephes longimanus - male - female

Moved
Moved from ID Request.

I rarely say this, but SQUISH'EM!
They will attach to many objects like fishing line, mostly to escape predators. They may be mistaken as bryozoan or something else that is inedible. They are one of the many invasive species that threaten our lakes in North America. I found these, I would squish each and every one. I don't hate'em, but they are a real scourge. I do hope you cleaned your boat and tackle!

 
yup
That was their fate, and the boat was checked as well.

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