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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.




Leiostomus xanthurus
Leiostomus xanthurus
(Spot)
Marine Fishes
Native Transplant

Copyright Info
Leiostomus xanthurus Lacepède, 1802

Common name: Spot

Taxonomy: available through www.itis.govITIS logo

Identification: Hoese and Moore (1977); Manooch (1984); Robins and Ray (1986).

Size: 36 cm.

Native Range: Marine. Massachusetts to northern Mexico; absent from southern Florida (Robins and Ray 1986).


Interactive maps: Point Distribution Maps

Nonindigenous Occurrences: Spot from coastal Texas waters reportedly was introduced to inland waters in Texas prior to 1992 (probably in the 1950s or 1960s) (Howells and Garrett 1992).

Table 1. States with nonindigenous occurrences, the earliest and latest observations in each state, and the tally and names of HUCs with observations†. Names and dates are hyperlinked to their relevant specimen records. The list of references for all nonindigenous occurrences of Leiostomus xanthurus are found here.

StateFirst ObservedLast ObservedTotal HUCs with observations†HUCs with observations†
TX194519921East Galveston Bay

Table last updated 11/9/2024

† Populations may not be currently present.


Means of Introduction: Intentionally stocked as a sport fish.

Status: The introduction failed.

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: Howells and Garrett (1992) provided no details concerning the stocking of spot in Texas. Presumably, its introduction took place in the 1950s, or shortly thereafter, when Texas agencies began wholesale capturing of native marine species along the Texas coast for later transport and stocking in reservoirs and rivers within the state.

References: (click for full references)

Howells, R. G., and G. P. Garrett. 1992. Status of some exotic sport fishes in Texas waters. Texas Journal of Science 44(3):317-324.

Robins, C. R., G. C. Ray, and J. Douglass. 1986. A field guide to Atlantic Coast fishes of North America. The Peterson Guide Series, volume 32. Houghton Mifflin Company, Boston, MA.

Other Resources:
FishBase Summary

Author: Fuller, P.

Revision Date: 4/30/2018

Peer Review Date: 5/22/2000

Citation Information:
Fuller, P., 2024, Leiostomus xanthurus Lacepède, 1802: U.S. Geological Survey, Nonindigenous Aquatic Species Database, Gainesville, FL, https://nas.er.usgs.gov/queries/FactSheet.aspx?speciesID=953, Revision Date: 4/30/2018, Peer Review Date: 5/22/2000, Access Date: 11/9/2024

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.

Disclaimer:

The data represented on this site vary in accuracy, scale, completeness, extent of coverage and origin. It is the user's responsibility to use these data consistent with their intended purpose and within stated limitations. We highly recommend reviewing metadata files prior to interpreting these data.

Citation information: U.S. Geological Survey. [2024]. Nonindigenous Aquatic Species Database. Gainesville, Florida. Accessed [11/9/2024].

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