First record of the Mayan Cichlid Mayaheros urophthalmus (Günther, 1862) in South Asia and its potential implications |
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| Authors: | Renjithkumar Chelapurath Radhakrishnan Roshni Kuttanelloor Rajeev Raghavan Ranjeet Kutty |
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| Institution: | 1. Department of Aquatic Environment Management, Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (KUFOS), Kochi, India;2. Department of Fisheries Resource Management, Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (KUFOS), Kochi, India |
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| Abstract: | We provide the first record of the Mayan Cichlid, Mayaheros urophthalmus from South Asia, based on specimens collected from the River Chalakudy in Kerala, India. Genetic analysis of the Indian sample showed close affinity with those from Philippines suggesting their potential South East Asian origin, and introduction through the unmanaged aquarium trade. Ecological plasticity, opportunistic predatory behaviour and eurytopic nature of M. urophthalmus could facilitate colonization in the new environment, unless urgent management strategies are developed and implemented. |
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| Keywords: | alien species aquarium trade India invasive species management |
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