Some species of pond and marsh
turtles are economic pests
in rice fields in the south. Their feeding
activity on young rice often results in
significant yield reductions in local
areas.
In commercial aquaculture production
ponds, turtles can eat fish that are
being grown. They also eat fish food.
In farm ponds, turtles undoubtedly
compete with fish for natural food
sources such as crayfish and insects.
Most turtles are not protected by state
laws. Licenses usually are required for
commercial fishing and sale of turtles.