Presence of Gambusia affinis(Baird &Girard, 1853) in a forested wetland in Southern Chile. Possible implications on the local invertebrate fauna.

Abstract

Invasive species are a leading cause of loss of biodiversity on the planet, due to predation affecting the local fauna through competition, hybridization, habitat alteration and diseasetransmission. In this study is described the possible implication of mosquito fish on invertebrate fauna in a forest wetland present in the Araucania region, Chile. The results indicate the presence of Gambusia affinisin all sampling sites, highlighting its adaptability to temperature and pH. The predatory role of Gambusia affinison mosquitoes, can favor the development of their larvae, invertebrate predators to consume them, influencing the trophic structure of communities.