Selected population characteristics of the non-native catfish Hoplosternum littorale (Hancock, 1828) in central Florida, USA

This study reports the length-weight relationship (LWR), Fultonʹs condition factor (K), and sex ratio of the non-native catfish Hoplosternum littorale (Hancock, 1828) in Florida for the first time. Sampling was conducted from November 2013 to April 2014 in Tosohatchee Wildlife Management Area in Christmas, Florida. A total of 477 specimens were caught (6.4-13.5 cm TL). The allometric coefficient b of the LWR was greater than the isometric value (b=3.11), suggesting positive allometric growth. The average value for Fultonʹs condition factor (K) was 1.396, with no significant differences between juvenile and adult size classes. The results present certain disparities from data recorded from the fishesʹ native range, suggesting that this freshwater invasive may be flourishing in Florida. In addition, a new maximum total length of the species is reported.