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.

---

Common name: Southern Studfish

Taxonomy: available through www.itis.gov

Identification: Page and Burr (1991); Etnier and Starnes (1993); Mettee et al. (1996).

Size: 12 cm.

Native Range: Alabama River drainage of Alabama, Georgia, and Tennessee (except Tallapoosa River system), and upper Chattahoochee River drainage, Georgia (Thomerson 1969).

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: This species was introduced through unknown means; possibly bait bucket release (Thomerson 1969).

Status: Failed in Georgia.

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: Thomerson (1969) was uncertain whether the Georgia specimen represented an introduction or a native record. The fish was taken with a northern studfish F. catenatus, a rare and possibly unnatural co-occurrence.  The species is native to Gulf Slope drainages, so it's occurrence across the drainage divide in the Tennessee seems unlikley without assistance.

Voucher specimens: Georgia (TU 34975).

Other Resources:

Author: Fuller, P.

Peer Review Date: 1/29/2013

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.