Author Type

Graduate Student

Date of Award

1976

Document Type

Thesis

Publication Status

Version of Record

Submission Date

October 2026

Abstract

It has been proposed that small, brightly colored poeciliid fishes be used as live bait for Florida gamefish. Studies were conducted to determine whether Xiphophorus variatus are preferentially preyed upon over a native poeciliid (Gambusia affinis) by Micropterus salmoides and investigate possible effects of variable platyfish on a community of native Florida poeciliids. Xiphophorus variatus were selectively consumed when Hydrilla verticillata was present. In pool studies variable platyfish had some detrimental effects on Heterandria formosa and Poecilia latipinna while G. affinis was not affected. Xiphophorus variatus were unable to maintain their population size during the six month study. Their numbers were especially reduced by the presence of H. verticillata. These controlled condition studies indicate the introduction of X. variatus by use as bait would probably not lead to displacement of native poeciliids. The author emphasizes the dangers of introducing any exotic into dynamic ecosystems.

Extent

64 p.

Comments

Thesis (M.S.)--Florida Atlantic University, 1976.|Thesis (M.S.)--Florida Atlantic University, 1976.

Identifier

FADT13803

Format

pdf

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