GRFS and IRBS researchers are on the forefront of scientific research on invasive species, especially the invasion of the UMRS by zebra mussels and bigheaded carp. Our access to long-term monitoring data documenting the establishment, geographic spread and population increase of these invasive species has allowed us to undertake many additional research projects supported by agencies such as NOAA Sea Grant, IDNR, USFWS, USGS, and the USACE. Recent projects include assessments of the potential prey base for bigheaded carp in Lake Michigan.