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: black molly

Native Range: None; hybrid.

Alaska	Hawaii	Puerto Rico & Virgin Islands	Guam Saipan

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

Ecology: Similar to parental species.

Means of Introduction: Likely aquarium release or escape from tropical fish farms.

Status: Unknown (but likely failed) in most locations. Shafland et al. (2008) do not mention this as a permanently established species 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: There are many hybrid varieties of several different Poecilia species (including P. latipinna, P. mexicana, P. sphenops, and P. velifera) that are collectively known as 'black mollies'. Also, P. latipinna produces semi-melanistic individuals in its native range.

No voucher specimens exist.

References: (click for full references)

Buntz, J., and P. Chapman. 1970. A preliminary report on the increasing establishment of non-native fish in the Tampa Bay area. Unpublished report for the Florida Game and Fresh Water Fish Commission. 6pp.

Courtenay, W.R., Jr., H.F. Sahlman, W.W. Miley, and D.J. Herrema. 1974. Exotic fishes in fresh and brackish waters of Florida. Biological Conservation 6(4):292-302.

LaRivers, I. 1962. Fishes and fisheries of Nevada. Nevada State Print Office, Carson City, NV.

Shafland, P.L., K.B. Gestring, and M.S. Stanford. 2008. Florida's Exotic Freshwater Fishes - 2007. Florida Scientist 71(3):220-245.

Other Resources:
Fact Sheet for Poecilia latipinna - USGS Nonindigenous Aquatic Species Database

Author: Matt Neilson, and Bill Loftus

Peer Review Date: 9/17/2012

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.