Genetic Evidence of Introduced Redeye Bass and Alabama Bass and Hybridization with Native Micropterus spp. in Town Creek, Alabama, USA

Abstract

AbstractThe black basses Micropterus spp. are among the most important game fishes in the United States. Translocation by both anglers and state agencies for increased angling opportunity has led to widespread hybridization between native and nonnative species. The use of species‐diagnostic single‐nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers for black basses has allowed for rapid assessment of species identification and hybridization in rivers and streams. Here, we report genetic evidence for the presence of Redeye Bass M. coosae and Alabama Bass M. henshalli outside of their native range and their hybridization with native species of black bass in Town Creek, a tributary of the Tennessee River. To determine which black bass species were present in the creek, four sites were sampled using both angling and backpack electrofishing. Sampled DNA from fin clips was analyzed using a diagnostic SNP panel. Genetic results confirmed that Redeye Bass and Alabama Bass were present as nonnative congeners in the creek. Interestingly, no pure individual Smallmouth Bass M. dolomieu or Spotted Bass M. punctulatus were found, although both species are native to the stream. Phenotypic identification followed by genotypic classification revealed that 62% of the fish collected for this study were misidentified in the field, with 100% of those being hybrids, indicating the importance of genetic assessment in conjunction with classic morphometrics for the management of black basses. Further studies are needed to determine whether seasonality plays a role in species presence and abundance and whether population profiles identified here are observed more broadly within the Tennessee River system.