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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: bloodfin tetra

Synonyms and Other Names: A. affinis Ahl, 1923, A. ipacarayensis Ahl, 1923, A. rubropinnis Pappenheim, 1922.

Taxonomy: available through www.itis.gov

Identification: Géry (1977) discussed the genus and provided a key (probably outdated). The genus Aphyocharax contains at least 10 species, all of which share the same common name: bloodfin tetras (Géry 1977).

Size: 4-5.5 cm TL (Lima 2003)

Native Range: Tropical America. Paraguay River in northern Argentina and Paraguay, South America (Géry 1977; S.H. Weitzman, personal communication).

Alaska	Hawaii	Puerto Rico & Virgin Islands	Guam Saipan

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

Means of Introduction: The fish probably escaped from local ornamental fish farms.

Status: Failed in Florida.

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: Aphyocharax anisitsi is a well-known aquarium fish. Florida specimens were identified by S.H. Weitzman. Voucher specimens: Florida (FDNR uncatalogued).

References: (click for full references)

Géry, J. 1977. Characoids of the world. Tropical Fish Hobbyist Publications, Inc., Neptune City, NJ.

Lima, R.S. 2003. Subfamily Aphyocharacinae (Characins). Pages 197-199 in R.E. Reis, S.O. Kullander and C.J. Ferraris, Jr., eds. Checklist of the freshwater fishes of South and Central America. Porto Alegre: EDIPUCRS, Brasil.

Weitzman, S.H. - Smithsonian Institution, Washington, D.C.

Other Resources:
US Fish and Wildlife Service Ecological Risk Screening Summary for Aphyocharax anisitsi

Author: Nico, L.

Peer Review Date: 6/22/2012

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.