Trachelyopterus galeatus (driftwood catfish) Fishes Exotic
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Common name: driftwood catfish
Taxonomy: available through
www.itis.gov
Identification: The genus is in need of taxonomic review. Considering its wide native distribution, T. galeatus may very well represent a species complex. A key to genera and distinguishing characteristics of the group were provided by Burgess (1989). Color photographs were given in Burgess (1989) and Ferraris (1991).
Size: 18 cm SL.
Native Range: Tropical America. Widely distributed in Atlantic drainages of northern and central South America including the Orinoco and Amazon river basins, drainages in the Guianas, and possibly elsewhere.
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Alaska |
Hawaii |
Puerto Rico & Virgin Islands |
Guam Saipan |
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 Trachelyopterus galeatus are found here.
Table last updated 4/24/2024
† Populations may not be currently present.
Means of Introduction: Probable aquarium release.
Status: Failed in Arizona.
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.
References: (click for full references)
Burgess, W. E. 1989. An atlas of freshwater and marine catfishes: a preliminary survey of the Siluriformes. Tropical Fish Hobbyist Publications, Inc., Neptune City, NJ.
Ferraris, C. J., Jr. 1991. Catfish in the aquarium. Tetra Press, Morris Plains, NJ.
Marsh, P.C. - Center for Environmental Studies, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ. Personal communication.
Vives, S. - Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ.
FishBase Summary
Author:
Nico, L.
Revision Date: 7/1/2022
Peer Review Date: 3/6/2011
Citation Information:
Nico, L., 2024, Trachelyopterus galeatus (Linnaeus, 1766): U.S. Geological Survey, Nonindigenous Aquatic Species Database, Gainesville, FL, https://nas.er.usgs.gov/queries/FactSheet.aspx?SpeciesID=322, Revision Date: 7/1/2022, Peer Review Date: 3/6/2011, Access Date: 4/24/2024
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.