Scientists are electrifying lakes to capture invasive species they believe are transported by hurricanes

Orlando, Florida —

Well before the sun rises in Orlando, joggers making their laps around Lake Underhill Park are joined by fishermen outfitting their kayaks on the edge of the boat ramp. Rods and lures safely stowed, the paddling anglers head past the swampy banks and cast their lines through the reeds and lily pads.

It’s a regular steamy summer morning for the locals, but on this day, there will also be strangers above and below the waters of the lake.

SUVs with government tags pull up, hauling a boat emblazoned with US Department of Interior branding. Out of them come scientists, also here to fish, but not for the bream and sunfish that are being caught and released for sport.

Their target is an invasive creature now known to lurk beneath the surface, carrying parasites, damaging