Lower Lethal Temperatures for Nonnative Freshwater Fishes in Everglades National Park, Florida

Nonnative freshwater fishes in Everglades National Park exhibit varying lower lethal temperature tolerances, ranging from 4°C to 16.1°C, with potential implications for their ecological role and management. This study provides empirical data on the low-temperature tolerance limits of four species—Banded Cichlid (Heros severus), Spotfin Spiny Eel (Macrognathus siamensis), African Jewelfish (Hemichromis letourneuxi), and Mayan Cichlid (Cichlasoma urophthalmus)—while also synthesizing existing knowledge for all 17 nonnative species found in the park. The findings suggest that temperature may be a critical factor influencing the geographic spread and ecological impact of these invasive fishes, offering potential avenues for management strategies.

Schofield, P. J., & Kline, J. L. (2018). Lower Lethal Temperatures for Nonnative Freshwater Fishes in Everglades National Park, Florida. North American Journal of Fisheries Management, 38(3), 706–717. https://doi.org/10.1002/nafm.10068