Aquaculture America 2020

February 9 - 12, 2020

Honolulu, Hawaii

SOME EXOTIC FISH SPECIES IN NIGERIA AND THE RISKS TO BIODIVERSITY

Anthony A. Nlewadim* and Okechukwu Alum-Udensi
Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Management
College of Natural Resources and Environmental Management
 Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike. Abia State,
Nigeria.
nlewadimanthony442@gmail.com

 Exotic fish species or non-indigenous fish  have become  common in different parts of the world due to their use in aquaculture, improvement of local fisheries potential, recreation and sports, ornamental and hobby fisheries, as well as pest control. I ndiscriminate transfer of fish species has been generating worldwide concerns.

Exotic species, despite possessing some attractive characteristics may introduce unhealthy competitions for food and habitat, prey on fish, introduce new diseases and parasites, or hybridize in the new environment. This study considers the ecological significance and  risks the introduction of exotic species may pose to aquatic biodiversity as well as the ecosystem.