A warning for coast fishermen--be on the lookout for black tiger shrimp.

The Division of Marine Fisheries says the shrimp, native to the West Pacific, has been found in North Carolina waters and could pose a threat to the native shrimp.

Fishermen reported capturing three of these shrimp last year, two in waters of the Pamlico Sound and one offshore from Bogue Banks.

During the past several years, black tiger shrimp have also been reported in Louisiana, Alabama, Florida, Georgia and South Carolina waters.

Marine Fisheries says it is believed that black tiger shrimp were introduced into the coastal waters of the South Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico by escaping from aquaculture facilities.

The tiger shrimp has distinct dark and white stripes along its back. If a fisherman catches one, Marine Fisheries says they should freeze it, record the date and location where it was caught and contact them.