They say that goldfish remain small and do not multiply when confined to aquariums. But when introduced to a bigger, wild ecosystem, they multiply rapidly, get much bigger and if they were to reach Lake Scugog, could grow to be eight pounds or larger.

In addition, the township cautioned that introducing domestic plants and animals to water bodies can lead to them altering habitats, overtaking resources and spreading disease to native species.

Stephens says if the water in the pond gets high enough to spill over, the goldfish could pose a threat to the ecosystem of a neighbouring stream that is home to trout fry.