A review on introduced Cichla spp. and emerging concerns

Area of Science:

• Ecology
• Invasive Species Biology
• Fisheries Management

Background:

• Peacock bass (Cichla spp.) are native to Neotropical regions but are spreading globally through trade and smuggling.
• Their ecological impact, distribution, and invasive potential are not fully understood.
• Invasive fish species pose a significant threat to native ecosystems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the ecology, biology, and introduction pathways of Cichla spp.
• To discuss the ecological impacts of Cichla spp. invasions.
• To propose effective management strategies for invasive Cichla spp.

Main Methods:

• Literature review synthesizing data from Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and NCBI.
• Analysis of Cichla spp. life history traits, ecological functions, and invasion mechanisms.
• Evaluation of current and proposed management strategies.

Main Results:

• Cichla spp. exhibit rapid embryogenesis (72 hours) and early maturation (11-12 months), facilitating rapid colonization.
• As apex piscivores, they displace native fish by dominating feeding and nursery grounds.
• Invasion dynamics are influenced by ecological functions, physiological traits, and parasite spillover.

Conclusions:

• Current management strategies like culling or sport fishing are insufficient for ecosystem-wide sustainability.
• Bottom-up management involving community participation is recommended due to local knowledge and interaction with the species.
• Understanding Cichla spp. biology and ecology is crucial for mitigating their invasive impact.