In 1960, Japan’s future emperor took 18 bluegills home from Chicago. Their descendants multiplied into millions and invaded Lake Biwa

A significant ecological problem arose from a 1960 gift of bluegills to Japan's Crown Prince Akihito. These fish propagated swiftly, infiltrating numerous lakes and rivers across Japan. Their proliferation posed threats to local species, essential for traditional culinary practices. As a result, Japan deemed them invasive, establishing removal initiatives and penalties. Years later, the emperor himself expressed regret over the unintended ecological repercussions.