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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.




Acrochordus javanicus
Acrochordus javanicus
(Javan Filesnake)
Reptiles-Snakes
Exotic

Copyright Info
Acrochordus javanicus Hornstedt, 1787

Common name: Javan Filesnake

Synonyms and Other Names: Elephant Trunk Snake

Taxonomy: available through www.itis.govITIS logo

Native Range: Acrochordus javanicus is found within the coastal regions of India and Sri Lanka, and throughout the Indo-Australian islands as far as the Solomons. It originated in India (Chiu, 1999).

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 Acrochordus javanicus are found here.

StateFirst ObservedLast ObservedTotal HUCs with observations†HUCs with observations†
FL197019701Southern Florida

Table last updated 10/6/2024

† Populations may not be currently present.


Means of Introduction: Released pet.

Status: Unknown.

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: Not reported breeding. Specimens were occasionally captured or observed in a rock pit northwest of Miami from the late 1970s until ca. 1990 (J.A. Wasilewski, Natural Selections, Homestead, personal communication); a single individual observed floating dead in ca. 1998 (B. Vath, personal communication); population was presumably reproducing but may now be extirpated.

References: (click for full references)

Chiu, K. 1999. "Acrochordus javanicus" (On-line), Animal Diversity Web. Accessed July 16, 2015 at http://animaldiversity.org/accounts/Acrochordus_javanicus/

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, (Larry Connor). 2009. FWC Exotic database as of 3-31-2009. Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission.

Author: Powell, R.S.

Revision Date: 9/30/2019

Citation Information:
Powell, R.S., 2024, Acrochordus javanicus Hornstedt, 1787: U.S. Geological Survey, Nonindigenous Aquatic Species Database, Gainesville, FL, https://nas.er.usgs.gov/queries/FactSheet.aspx?SpeciesID=2628, Revision Date: 9/30/2019, Access Date: 10/6/2024

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 [10/6/2024].

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