Distribution and Status of Introduced Cichlid Fishes of the Genera Oreochromis and Tilapia in the Islands of the South Pacific and Micronesia

Abstract

Fishes of the genera Tilapia and Oreochromis have become established in a variety of habitats on numerous islands of the South Pacific and Micronesia. Reproductive populations of tilapias can be found in lakes, reservoir, streams, rivers, mangroves and shallow lagoons. The reasons for the introductions include mosquito control, aquatic weed control, culture, stock enhancement and accidental release. Consequences of the introduction of tilapias have ranged from dramatic improvements of inland fisheries and the significant development of subsistence and commercial aquaculture to detrimental effects both on indigenous species and on traditional fish culture systems.