North American channel catfish, Ictalurus punctatus: a neglected but potentially invasive freshwater fish species?

Abstract The North American channel catfish Ictalurus punctatus has been introduced to several locations in Europe but received little or no scientific study despite its invasive attributes, including prolific reproduction, tolerance a wide range of conditions, opportunistic feeding, at least partial ‘predator release’, and some evidence environmental impacts (e.g. disease transmission). To assess the species’ potential invasiveness likely risks native species ecosystems Europe, available literature from both America was reviewed used carry out risk screenings for assessment areas, South Italy, using Aquatic Invasiveness Screening Kit (AS-ISK), which followed by more detailed evaluation (for Europe) Environmental Impact Classification Alien Taxa (EICAT) protocol. AS-ISK score indicated that is pose high being with EICAT scores indicating “Major” medium confidence levels, respectively. present results emphasise urgent need in-depth studies on populations this understand better so as inform management decisions appropriate control eradication measures invaded water bodies.