Potential Impacts of Introduced Fish and Fish Translocations on Australian Amphibians

This review examines the potential impact of introduced fish on amphibians, with particular emphasis on Australian freshwater systems. Firstly, the ecological relationships between fish predators and their amphibian prey are examined, and how they can be altered when non-native fish are introduced into aquatic systems.The current knowledge and research on the impacts of introduced fish on amphibians both overseas and within Australia is then reviewed. Evidence in the literature strongly suggests that introduction of exotic fish or translocation of native species could have enormous impacts on the amphibian assemblages of Australian freshwater systems. Introduced fish have been implicated in the decline of several anuran species, though few cases have beensubject to thorough research.Many Australian amphibian assemblages, including several threatened species, are potentially threatened by a variety of introduced fish species. Future research priorities and guidelines for examining the impact of introduced fish on Australian amphibians are outlined.Key management objectives for conservation agencies are identified.

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