Quebec scientists can't reel in any grass carp to study

Despite Quebec's investment of $1.7 million to tackle a possible grass carp invasion, scientists have yet to locate any specimensthemselves.

• Quebec fishermen catch invasive grass carp in St. Lawrence River

Quebec's Forests, Wildlife and Parks Ministrywas quick to roll out a plan to combat the invasive species after two fishermen in the Lanaudire regioncaughta 29-kilogram grass carp in the St. Lawrence RiverMay 27.

Government scientists'subsequent fishing expeditions have taken place in the Contrecurarea, about 60 kilometresnortheast of Montreal.

On Tuesday, the ministry announced they hadcome up empty-handed.

At this stage, laboratory tests are underway to determine the presence of grass carp DNA in the St. Lawrence River, sampling water from different areas. Those results will be available at the beginning of July.

The grass carp is a type of Asian carp. The one that was caught in the St. Lawrence River was estimated to be between 15 and 30 years old.

• Is it possible to stop the migration of Asian carp?