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.

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Common name: Comely Shiner

Taxonomy: available through www.itis.gov

Identification: Smith (1985); Page and Burr (1991); Jenkins and Burkhead (1994).

Size: 11 cm.

Native Range: Atlantic Slope drainages from Hudson River, New York, to Cape Fear River, North Carolina (Page and Burr 1991).

Alaska	Hawaii	Puerto Rico & Virgin Islands	Guam Saipan

Native range data for this species provided in part by NatureServe

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

Means of Introduction: The occurrence of this species in Seneca Lake, New York, may have resulted from spread via the Chemung Canal (Snelson 1968; Smith 1985). Smith (1985) stated that the presence of this species in the Shawangunk Kill of New York was probably the result of dispersal through the Delaware-Hudson Canal; however, we could find no mention of the Shawangunk Kill, or the possibility of its introduction into that site, in Snelson (1968, 1971). Method of introduction in the Yadkin drainage of North Carolina is unknown; possible bait bucket release.

Status: Reported from New York and North Carolina.

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: There is some uncertainty concerning the native versus nonnative distribution of this species. For example, the Comely Shiner may be native to the Yadkin in North Carolina. Its native range extends into the Pee Dee River in South Carolina and the main rivers in the Pee Dee, but these were not adequately sampled during the statewide survey in the 1960s (Jenkins, personal communication).

Other Resources:

Author: Nico, L.

Peer Review Date: 12/5/2003

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.