First and northernmost record of the invasive redhead cichlid (Vieja melanurus) in East Asia: evidence from Taipei City, Northern Taiwan
Journal
Biological Invasions
Journal Volume
27
Journal Issue
9
Start Page
article number 212
ISSN
1387-3547
1573-1464
Date Issued
2025-09-10
Author(s)
Abstract
This study documents the first and northernmost confirmed invasion of the redhead cichlid, Vieja melanurus (Günther, 1862), in East Asia. A total of 18 specimens were collected from the Jingmei River in Taipei City, northern Taiwan (24°59′12.8″N, 121°33′09.6″E), on June 11, 2025. Species identification was verified through both morphological and molecular analyses. The presence of multiple size classes (150–250 mm total length) and individuals with fully ripe mature gonads indicates the establishment of a reproducing feral population in northern Taiwan. These findings highlight a significant range expansion of V. melanurus beyond its previously known invasive range in Hong Kong and underscore the urgent need for ongoing monitoring and management of invasive ornamental fish species in the freshwater ecosystems.
Subjects
Cichlidae
Invasive species
Neobiota
Ornamental fish
Wild population
SDGs
Publisher
Springer Science and Business Media LLC
Type
journal article