A dozen fish: some exotic invasive species found in Brazilian waters and their impacts

Abstract

The introduction of invasive alien species (IAS) is among the leading causes of biodiversity loss in the world. The arrival of these species causes several imbalances in the natural environment. The establishment of these species depends on their transport, entry, adaptive success, and interactions in the environment. This work aims to present 12 species of exotic invasive fish that occur in natural environments in Brazil in the form of a booklet and to discuss some aspects inherent to legislation changes related to the cultivation of these species. The target audience of this study is mainly fish farmers, fishermen, riverside dwellers, assistance technicians, schools, environmental departments, and rural communities. The list had as a criterion the selection of species that are raised in fish farming stations and that already have records of occurrence in natural ecosystems in the country. These are exotic species introduced (from other countries) and with high invasive potential in Brazilian continental waters. To compose the list of these species, national and international studies that discuss the subject were sought, the following species being selected: Ctenopharyngodon idella, Hypophthalmichthys molitrix, Hypophthalmichthys nobilis, Cyprinus carpio, Oreochromis niloticus, Coptodon Rendalli, Oreochromis mossambicus, Oreochromis macrochir, Clarias gariepinus, Ictalurus punctatus, Oncorhynchus mykiss, Micropterus salmoides. In addition to presenting the impacts of invasive alien species on native ichthyofauna, this material will help disseminate technical information and may also be an aid to guide public policy decision making and awareness.
Keywords: aquaculture, biodiversity, distribution, establishment, invasion, legislation