An updated reef fish checklist of the southernmost Caribbean reef system, with comments on the lionfish invasion

Chocó-Darien is an important biogeographic realm, as it a terrestrial biodiversity hotspot and the southern limit of Caribbean reefs. However, to date there are no compiled data on reef fish assemblage this region. We provide updated checklist marine fishes from system (Colombia), with comments their geographic distribution conservation status. Peer-reviewed studies, unpublished in situ visual censuses were surveyed compose checklist. A total 212 species across 57 families compiled, eight which had previously published records, one (Trachinotus falcatus) recorded for first time. The most speciose Labridae (n = 21), Gobiidae 18) Serranidae 17). Fourteen threatened recorded, including critically endangered (Epinephelus striatus) two (Balistes vetula Scarus coelestinus). This study contributes fill knowledge gaps diversity raises concern spread lionfish invasion into Chocó-Darién system.