Biological Invasions in Fresh Waters: Micropterus salmoides, an American Fish Conquering the World

Abstract

Biological invasions in fresh waters cause biodiversity loss and impairment of ecosystem functioning. Many freshwater invasive species are fish, including the largemouth bass Micropterus salmoides, which is considered one of the 100 worst invasive species in the world. Fast individual growth rates, high dispersal ability, ecological tolerance, and trophic plasticity are among the characteristics contributing to its success. The negative impact of M. salmoides on littoral fish communities is believed to be mitigated by habitat structural complexity resulting from aquatic vegetation and coarse woody debris, while the main limits on its spread seem to be strong water flows and high turbidity, which impairs visual predation. Together with the human overexploitation of its potential fish antagonists, habitat alteration could result in M. salmoides having seriously detrimental effects on native biodiversity. The purpose of this study is to critically review the life history and ecology of M. salmoides, its impact on ecosystems outside North America, and the effects of anthropogenic activities on its spread. This will highlight environmental factors that favor or limit its invasive success, helping to identify management measures that might mitigate its negative effects on freshwater biodiversity.