Disclaimer:

The Nonindigenous Occurrences section of the NAS species profiles has a new structure. The section is now dynamically updated from the NAS database to ensure that it contains the most current and accurate information. Occurrences are summarized in Table 1, alphabetically by state, with years of earliest and most recent observations, and the tally and names of drainages where the species was observed. The table contains hyperlinks to collections tables of specimens based on the states, years, and drainages selected. References to specimens that were not obtained through sighting reports and personal communications are found through the hyperlink in the Table 1 caption or through the individual specimens linked in the collections tables.




Margariscus margarita
Margariscus margarita
(Allegheny Pearl Dace)
Fishes
Native Transplant

Copyright Info
Margariscus margarita (Cope, 1867)

Common name: Allegheny Pearl Dace

Taxonomy: available through www.itis.govITIS logo

Identification: Scott and Crossman (1973), Becker (1983), Smith (1985), Page and Burr (1991); another name is Semotilus margarita. Two subspecies are currently recognized, M. m. margarita in the Allegheny region, and M. m. nachtriebi in the rest of the range (Page and Burr 1991).

Size: 16 cm.

Native Range: Atlantic, Hudson Bay, Great Lakes, and Mississippi River basins in southern Canada and northern United States from Atlantic Coast to southern Northern Territories, eastern British Columbia, and Montana; south to Virginia, Michigan, Wisconsin, and Iowa. Isolated population in upper Missouri River basin, South Dakota, Nebraska, and Wyoming (Page and Burr 1991).
Native range data for this species provided in part by NatureServe NS logo
Hydrologic Unit Codes (HUCs) Explained
Interactive maps: Point Distribution Maps

Nonindigenous Occurrences:

Table 1. States with nonindigenous occurrences, the earliest and latest observations in each state, and the tally and names of HUCs with observations†. Names and dates are hyperlinked to their relevant specimen records. The list of references for all nonindigenous occurrences of Margariscus margarita are found here.

StateFirst ObservedLast ObservedTotal HUCs with observations†HUCs with observations†
CT195219963Outlet Connecticut River; Quinnipiac; Saugatuck

Table last updated 12/28/2024

† Populations may not be currently present.


Means of Introduction: Unknown. Possible bait bucket release.

Status: Reported from Connecticut. The Byram River drainage was sampled in 1987 and 1988 but no additional specimens were found. Consequently, Whitworth (1996) concluded that the species was no longer present.

Impact of Introduction: The impacts of this species are currently unknown, as no studies have been done to determine how it has affected ecosystems in the invaded range. The absence of data does not equate to lack of effects. It does, however, mean that research is required to evaluate effects before conclusions can be made.

Remarks: In some areas this species is considered important as a bait minnow (Scott and Crossman 1973).

Other Resources:
FishBase Summary

Author: Pam Fuller, and Leo Nico

Revision Date: 3/22/2000

Peer Review Date: 3/22/2000

Citation Information:
Pam Fuller, and Leo Nico, 2024, Margariscus margarita (Cope, 1867): U.S. Geological Survey, Nonindigenous Aquatic Species Database, Gainesville, FL, https://nas.er.usgs.gov/queries/factsheet.aspx?speciesid=569, Revision Date: 3/22/2000, Peer Review Date: 3/22/2000, Access Date: 12/28/2024

This information is preliminary or provisional and is subject to revision. It is being provided to meet the need for timely best science. The information has not received final approval by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and is provided on the condition that neither the USGS nor the U.S. Government shall be held liable for any damages resulting from the authorized or unauthorized use of the information.

Disclaimer:

The data represented on this site vary in accuracy, scale, completeness, extent of coverage and origin. It is the user's responsibility to use these data consistent with their intended purpose and within stated limitations. We highly recommend reviewing metadata files prior to interpreting these data.

Citation information: U.S. Geological Survey. [2024]. Nonindigenous Aquatic Species Database. Gainesville, Florida. Accessed [12/28/2024].

Contact us if you are using data from this site for a publication to make sure the data are being used appropriately and for potential co-authorship if warranted.

For general information and questions about the database, contact Wesley Daniel. For problems and technical issues, contact Matthew Neilson.