Hypostomus sp. The devil fish that invades the Caribbean basin of Nicaragua

Abstract

The document shows relevant scientific information for the Nicaraguan state and people on biological aspects, distribution, impact on the fishery and the environment of devilfish (Hypostomus sp), which is considered invasive because it develops outside its natural distribution, presents unusual abundance and produces alterations in the richness and diversity of the lake ecosystem. It represents a negative environmental, economic and social impact, due to its ability to modify the morphology of rivers, altering physicochemical parameters of the water, forcing native species to migrate to areas with better environmental conditions, reducing the fishery of the target species. and damages fishing gear, affecting the living conditions of fishermen. The objective is to inform the population about the presence and implications in the rivers of the city and Laguna de Bluefields, so that they can inform about their presence in the bodies of water and in conjunction with public, private or non-governmental organizations, take steps to reduce them. In Caño El Muerto in the city of Bluefields, two specimens were captured and later transferred to the BICU [Bluefields Indian & Caribbean University] Aquatic Research Center (CIAB), where biometric measurements were taken. On average, they were 30 cm in total length and their gonads were immature, probably not yet having reached their first sexual maturity. In conclusion, it is necessary to carry out studies of its population in order to establish measures that reduce its population and avoid effects on the fishery and environment.