Scott MacNab

A new offence making it illegal for fish or live spawn to be introduced to inland waters without permission was announced yesterday.

Environment Secretary Richard Lochhead said the move is aimed at providing greater protection from alien species.

Anglers and land managers who might consider such a move are among those who could be affected.

Loch Lomond now contains ruffe, a small bait fish, which was not previously present, with carp, another non-native, also in the Clyde.

Fisheries chiefs will now have to be satisfied that there is a case for stocking fish which will not threaten native Scottish species, before permission is granted.

The new legislation is due to come into force on August 1. "Our rivers and lochs support a unique range of fish and other aquatic species," Mr Lochhead said yesterday.

"We have already taken steps to limit alien invaders through the Non-native Invasive Species Strategy launched earlier this month."

"The legislation I am announcing today provides the government and District Salmon Fishery Boards with a powerful tool to protect Scotland's unique and fragile freshwater biodiversity, while continuing to promote the world-renowned fishing it supports."