New nonindigenous fishes are introduced to the region's waters each year and already-established invasive fishes continually expand their ranges. Furthermore, assessing the effects of a new invader on native species and environments is complicated by the fact that most habitats are under stress as a result of human disturbance and because many sites are already populated by other introduced species. The goal of the Nonindigenous Fishes Program is to fill critical information gaps concerning the pathways of introduction and invasion, distribution, status, environmental biology, and effects of nonindigenous fishes. Important species, from both a biological and economic perspective, are targeted for study and monitoring, with special emphasis on those that have great potential to negatively effect native species and environments. Research results are intended to provide information critical to successful control and management of harmful nonindigenous species, as well as for assessing risks associated with species being considered for introduction.
Nonindigenous fishes are a relatively new component of the South Florida ecosystem.
Some are potential threats, particularly those that are highly predatory or competitive. During the past century, at least 20 foreign fishes have become established in South Florida. Our field data has demonstrated that the eel is locally abundant and reproducing in three Florida drainages, including two canal systems in South Florida. If these relationships are shown to exist throughout South Florida, then nonindigenous species may serve as important indicators of ecosystem health and as useful predictors of the success of Everglades restoration activities. Influence of Hydrology on Life-History Parameters of Common Freshwater Fishes from Southern Florida Fishes are essential to the successful functioning of wetland food webs in the South Florida ecosystem through their roles as prey and predators.