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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: Gar Characin

Synonyms and Other Names: Xiphostoma hujeta Valenciennes in Cuvier and Valenciennes 1850, Luciocharax insculptus Steindachner 1878; Pike Characin, Silver Pike-characin, agujeta

Taxonomy: available through www.itis.gov

Identification: Ctenolucius hujeta shows a weak similarity to North American native gars (family Lepisosteidae) and pikes (family Esocidae). It can be distinguished from both families by the presence of an adipose fin (absent in both Lepisosteidae and Esocidae).

It also shows a general similarity to Pike Killifish (Belonesox belizanus). It can be distinguished by the presence of an adipose fin (absent in Belonesox), dorsal fin origin anterior to the anal fin origin (posterior in Belonesox), generally straight jaws that close completely (curved jaws that prevents complete closure in Belonesox), a forked caudal fin (rounded in Belonesox), and the absence of a gonopodium in males (present in male Belonesox).

Size: to ~230 mm SL (Vari 1995)

Native Range: Northern Columbia (Río Sinú and Río Magdalena basins) to northwestern Venezuela (Lago Maracaibo basin) (Vari 1995)

Alaska	Hawaii	Puerto Rico & Virgin Islands	Guam Saipan

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

Ecology: Generalist carnivore/piscivore, preferring quiet waters and small inlets (Vari 1995).

Means of Introduction: Likely aquarium release

Status: Unknown; likely failed as only a single individual was observed.

Impact of Introduction: The types and magnitude of possible ecological and economic impacts are currently unknown. The absence of data does not equate to lack of effects. A better understanding to adequately assess this species in its invaded range will require further research to evaluate effects.

References: (click for full references)

Vari, R.P. 1995. The neotropical fish family Ctenoluciidae (Teleostei: Ostariophysi: Characiformes): supra and intrafamilial phylogenetic relationships, with a revisionary study. Smithsonian Contributions to Zoology 564:1-97. https://repository.si.edu/handle/10088/5198

Other Resources:

Author: Neilson, M.

Peer Review Date: 3/12/2020

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.