Controversy over Newly Identified 'Florida Bass' Species

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A recent study is causing anglers and wildlife officials some confusion. Yale University conducted a study that determined a genetic difference between largemouth bass and what is now being called "Florida bass". In response to this study, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has declared bass found in Florida's waterways "Florida bass". The American Fisheries Society has agreed to the distinction between the species.

The Latin name for the species has been altered in response to identifying a new species. "Florida bass" will have the scientific name of "Micropterus salmoides". Largemouth bass will be known by the scientific name of "Micropterus nigricans".

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So, why is there a controversy? The rub comes in the record books. For 75 years, bass have simply been referred to as "largemouth bass". With the new classification for "Florida bass", there is a controversy on how to handle the record books. To further compound the problem, the average angler will not be able to distinguish between largemouth bass and Florida bass. There are also questions regarding the range of the Florida bass.

Texas Parks and Wildlife have been stocking Florida bass in Texas waters since the early 1970s. It is estimated that more than 200 million Florida bass fingerlings have been released into over 400 reservoirs all over the state of Texas. The popular Toyota Sharelunker program has benefited from the introduction of Florida bass into Texas waters.

How will Texas Parks and Wildlife handle the identification of a new species of bass? One can only guess. What do you think should be done and how would you handle the record books? Let us know in the comments.

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Sources: https://www.foxnews.com/lifestyle/largemouth-bass-known-florida-bass-distinct-species-discovery

https://tpwd.texas.gov/huntwild/wild/species/lmb/#:~:text=Two%20subspecies%20of%20largemouth%20bass,sought%2Dafter%20fish%20in%20Texas.