The Second Collection Record of Northern Studfish (Fundulus catenatus) from Kansas

Abstract

The Northern Studfish (Fundulus catenatus) is a nonnative species in Kansas that has been detected once in the state in 1965. This historical collection occurred in West Fork Drywood Creek, which is part of the Osage River basin. Here we report the second collection record of Northern Studfish in Kansas from Dry Branch, which is part of the Neosho River basin (NRB). This second collection occurred on 23 April 2022 when we found three individuals that ranged in total length from 120-124 mm. The Northern Studfish population we detected in Dry Branch is proximal to other known introduced populations in the NRB of northeastern Oklahoma, which represent a likely colonization source for the individuals we found in Kansas. Based on other recent stream fish sampling we have done we believe that the distribution of Northern Studfish in Kansas is highly-restricted. However, monitoring of this species should continue to evaluate its establishment and spread, and any potential resultant negative impacts.