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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.

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Common name: banded jewelfish

Synonyms and Other Names: five-spot cichlid, five-star general

Taxonomy: available through www.itis.gov

Identification: Loiselle (1979) revised the genus. Distinguishing characteristics and illustrations were given by Loiselle (1979) and Skelton (1993). Keys were included in Loiselle (1992) and in Skelton (1993). Color illustrations or photographs were provided by Axelrod et al. (1985), Axelrod (1993), Skelton (1993), and Linke and Staeck (1994).

Size: 19 cm (Skelton 1993).

Native Range: Western Africa. Widespread in Zaire basin to tropical West Africa, and in Okavango and upper Zambezi systems (Skelton 1993; Linke and Staeck 1994).

Alaska	Hawaii	Puerto Rico & Virgin Islands	Guam Saipan

Hydrologic Unit Codes (HUCs) Explained
Interactive maps: Point Distribution Maps

Means of Introduction: Probable aquarium release.

Status: Established in Hawaii.

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: Hemichromis elongatus is found in the aquarium trade. This species has a reputation as an aggressive predator that preys on smaller fishes, shrimps, and insects (Skelton 1993).

There are no known voucher specimens.

References: (click for full references)

Axelrod, H. R. 1993. The most complete colored lexicon of cichlids. Tropical Fish Hobbyist Publications, Inc., Neptune City, NJ.

Hink, H., and W. Staeck. 1994. African cichlids I: Cichlids from West Africa. Tetra Press, Melle, Germany.

Loiselle, P. V. 1979. A revision of the genus Hemichromis Peters 1858 (Teleostei: Cichlidae). Museé Royal de L'Afrique Central-Tervuren-Belgique-Annales-Serie in-8-Sciences Zoologiques-No. 228. 124 pp.

Skelton, P. H. 1993. A complete guide to the freshwater fishes of southern Africa. Southern Book Publishers, Halfway House, South Africa.

Tagawa, A. - Division of Aquatic Resources, Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources, Honolulu, HI.

Other Resources:
US Fish and Wildlife Service Ecological Risk Screening Summary for Hemichromis elongatus

Author: Nico, L.

Peer Review Date: 6/15/2004

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.