Expert bioblitzes facilitate non-native fish tracking and interagency partnerships

Management of Biological Invasions
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Abstract

Documenting the distribution and composition of non-native species populations can be challenging, especially when species cross jurisdictional boundaries that require interagency coordination. Herein I report the development of three tools that have been used in Florida over the past seven years to assist with tracking of non-native fishes: 1) an overarching organization to increase coordination and communication amongst stakeholders (Florida Non-Native Fish Action Alliance); 2) regularly-scheduled expert bioblitzes (Fish Slams); and 3) symposia (Fish Chats). Ten Fish Slams were held since 2012, which have included nearly 100 individuals from 20 organizations. Participants have sampled nearly 200 unique sites, capturing 36 non-native fish taxa. These activities have generated over 600 records for the U.S. Geological Survey’s Nonindigenous Aquatic Species database. Many specimens collected during Fish Slams are deposited into natural history museums or used by researchers. Informal interactions amongst colleagues working together in the field, at check-in meetings at the end of the day, and during more structured Fish Chat symposia allow members of various organizations to become acquainted, build trust, and share information and technology, which may then lead to professional collaborations. While this program is focused on non-native fish species in south Florida, I also discuss how the expert bioblitz may be adapted to suit other taxonomic groups and a variety of conservation needs.

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Publication type Article
Publication Subtype Journal Article
Title Expert bioblitzes facilitate non-native fish tracking and interagency partnerships
Series title Management of Biological Invasions
DOI 10.3391/mbi.2020.11.1.10
Volume 11
Issue 1
Year Published 2020
Language English
Publisher REABIC
Contributing office(s) Wetland and Aquatic Research Center
Description 16 p.
First page 139
Last page 154
Country United States
State Florida
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