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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: Marquesan sardine

Taxonomy: available through www.itis.gov

Identification: This species was presumed to be Harengula vittata, but subsequently described as a new species, Sardinella marquesensis in 1968 by Berry and Whitehead (see Randall 1987).

Native Range: Endemic to the Marquesas (Mundy 2005).

Interactive maps: Point Distribution Maps

Ecology: Pelagic over shallow coastal waters (Mundy 2005).

Means of Introduction: Stocked.  Transported to Oahu during seven research vessel cruises from the Marquesas during 1955 to 1958.

Status: Established on all islands of Hawaii (Mundy 2005).

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: In 1978 a fisherman in Kaua'i died of clupeoid poisining after eating three Marquesan sardines (Randall 1987).

References: (click for full references)

Mundy, B.C. 2005. Checklist of fishes of the Hawiian Archipelago. Bishop Museum Bulletin in Zoology, Number 6.

Randall, J.E. 1987. Introductions of marine fishes to the Hawaiian Islands. Bulletin of Marine Science 41: 490-502.

Other Resources:

Author: Schofield, P.J.

Peer Review Date: 9/15/2011

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.