USGS - science for a changing world

Southeast Ecological Science Center

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Pam L. Fuller & Leo G. Nico - USGS
Florida Integrated Science Center, Gainesville, Florida

Presented at the South Florida Restoration Science Forum.  Boca Raton, Florida.  May 1999.
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Map of Florida - click to enlarge
A national perspective of introduced fishes - click to enlarge
Major drainage basins of the United States - click to enlarge
U.S. perspective by drainages - click to enlarge
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*  data represent all species ever collected, including historical reports and species that failed to become established.

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Origin of introduced fish species - click to enlarge
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Methods of Introduction - click to enlarge
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Orinoco Sailfin Catfish (Pterygoplicththys multiradiatus) - click to enlarge

Orinoco Sailfin Catfish
(Pterygoplicththys multiradiatus)

This South American armored catfish has been established in southeastern Florida since about 1971. Its presence is most likely the result of escapes or releases from fish farms. (Photo by Leo G. Nico)
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Oscar (Astronotus ocellatus) - click to enlarge

Oscar (Astronotus ocellatus)

This South American cichlid has been established in Florida waters since the late 1950s, the result of a Dade County fish farm release. In South Florida, this predator is commonly taken by anglers. (Photo by Howard Jelks)
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Brown Hoplo (Hoplosternum littorale) - click to enlarge

Brown Hoplo (Hoplosternum littorale)

This South American catfish has been established in peninsular Florida since the mid-1990s, source of introduction is unknown. It has recently invaded the Kissimmee River drainage and will likely spread into southern Florida within the next decade. (Photo by Howard Jelks)
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Pike killifish (Belonesox beliznus) - click to enlarge

Pike killifish (Belonesox beliznus)

Native to Middle America, this species was introduced into South Florida in 1957 when individuals reared for medical research purposes were released into a local canal. It is now firmly established. (Photo by Leo G. Nico)
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Spotted tilapia (Tilapia maria) - click to enlarge

Spotted tilapia (Tilapia maria)

This African cichlid was introduced into Florida as a result of escapes or releases from fish farms in Dade County, probably during the early 1970s. It is now one of the most abundant species in many South Florida canals. (Photo by Noel Burkhead)
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Temporal trends - click to enlarge

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