Species that are considered uncertain risk need a more in-depth assessment beyond the Risk Summary to better define the species’ risk to U.S. environments.
Tilapia buttikoferi is a benthopelagic cichlid native to West Africa. It is used in the aquarium trade, which has led to its establishment in both Florida and Singapore. At present, no scientific publications describe the effects of these introduced populations on native species. However, one source suggests that effects may be similar to those produced by Tilapia mariae, a related species with high history of invasiveness. Climate match of T. buttikoferi to the contiguous U.S. is medium. With uncertain history of invasiveness, the overall risk posed by this species is uncertain.
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Uncertain Risk
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