Ecological Risk Screening Summary - American Bullfrog (Lithobates catesbeianus) - High Risk

Species that are considered high risk have a well-documented history of invasiveness in at least one location globally, and a high or medium climate match to the contiguous United States.

Lithobates catesbeianus, a frog native to eastern North America, has become established across the United States and in many other countries as well via intentional and accidental introductions. Numerous authors have described the effects of L. catesbeianus on novel ecosystems; these include outcompeting or preying on native species, altering nutrient cycling, and spreading disease. Nearly all locations in the contiguous U.S. provide suitable climate for this species. Overall risk posed by this species is high.

Publication date
Type of document
High Risk
Program
A man is fishing in a boat with three young girls. The kids are excitedly pulling a fish out of the water.
The Fish and Aquatic Conservation programs work together to deliver resilient habitats, healthy fish, connected people, and strong partnerships. From habitat restoration to aquatic invasive species prevention, captive breeding to population assessment and monitoring, our programs are driven by the...
Silver Carp Jumping
Aquatic invasive species cause tremendous harm to our environment, our economy, and our health. They can drive out and eat native plants and wildlife, spread diseases, and damage infrastructure. We work to protect our waterways and the communities that depend on them from the threat of invasive...
Subject tags
Invasive species