Larry McCloskey sez:
> Appreciate the expressed concern about introduction of exotic species. The
> principal is worthy of serious concern. But the strains of Gambusia the F & W
> have used are hatchery-reared, and there's enough case history data to show
> beyond any reasonable doubt that these are non-threatening species,
> short-lived (normally you have to re-introduce the population every year), and
> a prey specialist on insect larvae like mosquitoes. To eschew such a
> biologically sound control possibility because of unwarranted extrapolation
> from other bona fide horror stories (the Starling story is not a good
> parallel), especially in favor of unnatural chemical biocides, may not be
> prudent.

In the eastern part of the state, I'd say you're probably right as
these fish aren't adapted to cold water or to surviving in seasonal
bodies of water.

But, not sure you're right in regards to the western part of the
state, with our milder weather.

While I'm uncertain of the situation in the NW, but do know that in some
parts of the country (the south, I believe, perhaps Florida) that
they're thought to be a problem.

I read this in the last year or so on a trip, I'm a junkie and can't
stay away from the dailies and from digesting as much of local
conservation stuff and political scandal wherever I am. So, I'm
guessing Florida for a couple of reasons:

1. I was there in January

2. The Gambusia species used for mosquito control is native to more
southern parts of the New World (northern Mexico, I believe) and
would likely be able to survive on its own.

3. Florida has a horrible problem with introduced species of all
sorts of flavors - animal, mineral and vegetable. Well, maybe
not mineral...

Many plants. Many birds. And...many fish. Florida is the
heart of the domestic tropical fish trade, and they're normally
bred in outside ponds and several species have established themselves
and have become pests.

So, if it ain't there at least it's a good guess :)


-Don Baccus-