First record of the Gangetic Swamp Eel, Ophichthys cuchia (Hamilton, 1822) (Teleostei: Synbranchidae), from Texas (USA) based on museum vouchered material, and confirmation of a second established non-native population in the USA

Abstract

The native range of Ophichthys cuchia includes part of Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, and Nepal. Ophichthys cuchia has also been collected within six states in the USA (Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania) and an established invasive population exists in New Orleans (Louisiana). We provide the first record of O. cuchia from Texas and the second report of an established non-native population in the USA based on 26 museum vouchered specimens collected from a series of urban ponds within the Houston metro area (Fort Bend Co.).

Keywords

• Houston metro area
• invasive species
• North Americ