Non-Native Aquarium Fish Found in Florida Waters; Citizens Asked to Help Prevent the Spread of Invasive Species NOAA’s
Concerned citizens can play an important role in the prevention and detection of aquatic invasive species:
• Do not release any live organisms, such as fish, algae, shellfish and worms, into natural habitats or man-made impoundments and canals where they may eventually reach natural ecosystems. Responsible alternatives include returning them to the site of purchase, or donating them to an aquarium or school.
• For information on how to handle aquarium species to protect the environment, visit Habitattitude,
a national initiative developed by the Aquatic Nuisance Species Task Force and its partner organizations.
• Report sightings of suspected introduced aquatic species on the
USGS Nonindigenous Aquatic Species Web site. Citizens’ help in monitoring for invasive species is critical for early detection of harmful species.More information about the Red Sea Bannerfish is available
online.Non-Native Aquarium Fish Found in Florida Waters; Citizens Asked to Help Prevent the Spread of Invasive Species
NOAA’s
National Center for Coastal Ocean Sciences reports that the Red Sea Bannerfish has been found living on Paul’s Reef off Palm Beach, FL. This species is native to the Red Sea in the Middle East, but is sold in the United States as a saltwater aquarium fish. It is one of several exotic aquarium fish species that have been photographed or captured in recent years living on reefs off southern Florida . NOAA scientists are analyzing the impact of such releases on native ecosystems and fisheries.
Concerned citizens can play an important role in the prevention and detection of aquatic invasive species:
• Do not release any live organisms, such as fish, algae, shellfish and worms, into natural habitats or man-made impoundments and canals where they may eventually reach natural ecosystems. Responsible alternatives include returning them to the site of purchase, or donating them to an aquarium or school.
• For information on how to handle aquarium species to protect the environment, visit Habitattitude,
a national initiative developed by the Aquatic Nuisance Species Task Force and its partner organizations.
• Report sightings of suspected introduced aquatic species on the
USGS Nonindigenous Aquatic Species Web site. Citizens’ help in monitoring for invasive species is critical for early detection of harmful species.More information about the Red Sea Bannerfish is available
online.