Short Communication

First Report of the Non-native Midas Cichlid, Amphilophus citrinellus (Gunther, 1864), in Laguna de Bay, Philippines


Jennifer A. Poniente1, John T. Dela Peña1, Romualdo M. Pol2, Levita H. Zapanta2+, and Mudjekeewis D. Santos*1

Abstract

In recent years, increasing global trade, travel, and transport had rapidly increased the rate of introduction and diversity of non-native fish species. Once established, some introduced fish species can become aggressive and dangerously invasive. Here, we provide the first report of the occurrence of a non-native Midas cichlid Amphilophus citrinellus in Laguna de Bay using morphological analysis and genetic marker, specifically the mitochondrial gene cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (CO1). The results provide important information on the presence of another invasive species in Laguna de Bay that needs to be addressed since this species can competitively exclude, predate, and displace native species


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Keywords: Amphilophus citrinellus, non-native fish, Laguna de Bay, invasive species, cichlid


*Corresponding Author: mudjiesantos@gmail.com

+Author added based on the request of Romualdo M. Pol dated January 17, 2020

1Genetic Fingerprinting Laboratory, National Fisheries Research and Development Institute,
Quezon City, Philippines
2National Inland Fisheries Technology Center, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, Tanay, Rizal, Philippines

https://doi.org/10.31398/tpjf/26.2.2019A0007