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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: Congo tetra

Taxonomy: available through www.itis.gov

Size: 8.0 cm male; 6.0 cm female (FishBase 2011).

Native Range: This species is native to the Middle Congo Basin in Africa (Froese and Pauly, 2012).

Alaska	Hawaii	Puerto Rico & Virgin Islands	Guam Saipan

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

Ecology: The Congo Tetra is benthopelagic and is found in waters with a pH between 6.0 and 8.0 (Froese and Pauly, 2012).

The Congo Tetra feeds on worms, small insects, crustaceans, and plant matter. The female lays up to 300 eggs, which sink to the bottom and hatch in 6 days. The nest is not guarded (Mills and Vevers, 1989).

Males are larger and more colorful than females (SeriouslyFish, 2012a).

Means of Introduction: Aquarium release.

Status: Established in Puerto Rico.

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)

Erdman, D.S. 1984. Exotic fishes in Puerto Rico. Pages 162-176 in W. R. Courtenay, Jr. and J. R. Stauffer, Jr. (eds.), Distribution, Biology, and Management of Exotic Fishes. Johns Hopkins University Press, Baltmore, Maryland. 430 pp.

Froese, R. and D. Pauly (eds). 2012. FishBase. World Wide Web electronic publication. Available from: http://www.fishbase.org.  Version (08/2012).

Mills, D. and G. Vevers. 1989. The Tetra encyclopedia of freshwater tropical aquarium fishes. Tetra Press, New Jersey. 208 p.

SeriouslyFish. 2012a. Phenacogrammus interruptus Congo Tetra. Available from: http://www.seriouslyfish.com/species/phenacogrammus-interruptus/ Accessed 3/26/2013.

Other Resources:

Author: Fuller, P.

Peer Review Date: 8/6/2013

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.