‘Most iconic’ freshwater fish in Florida now designated as its own species, study says

A variety of popular fish found in Florida has been determined to be a separate species and received a new name, state officials announced.

“The most iconic Florida freshwater fish has a new name: Largemouth bass is now called Florida bass,” the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission said July 17.

Researchers conducted genetic analysis and learned the two were actually different species, according to a study published in Nature.

The American Fisheries Society decided to distinguish between the two fish.

The fish now have two different scientific names as well. Florida bass will take over the name Micropterus salmoides, while largemouth bass will be called Micropterus nigricans.

Researchers learned that Florida bass are found not only in Florida but also in Georgia and the Carolinas, charts from the study show. However, some specimens in the Florida Panhandle appeared to be largemouth bass, not Florida bass.

The classification change won’t affect anglers, according to the FWC. The fish look the same and can only be differentiated by genetic testing, so wildlife officials won’t change regulations for catching them.

Largemouth bass are some of the most sought-after fish for anglers in the country, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. They live in freshwater lakes, rivers and swamps, often seeking the cover of vegetation, wildlife experts say.

“This new understanding of black bass diversity, distribution and classification provides a critical foundation for better managing and conserving these important and iconic fish,” FWC officials said. “It will aid in ensuring their continued conservation and sustainable use for future generations.”

This story was originally published July 17, 2024 at 2:46 PM with the headline "‘Most iconic’ freshwater fish in Florida now designated as its own species, study says."