The three‐spot cichlid Amphilophus trimaculatus (Günther) is an ornamental fish known to be invasive but has not been assessed for India. The present study confirmed this non‐native species’ identity using conventional and molecular methods, as well as its occurrence in the River Cauvery, the first for this species in a lotic environment outside its native range. Gut content analysis indicated a diet of predominantly insects. The river's water quality and habitat were conducive for the species’ growth and reproduction. Using the Aquatic Species Invasiveness Screening Kit, A. trimaculatus was ranked as posing a “high” risk of being invasive in the River Cauvery, with climate match analysis showing 58% similarity with the species’ native range. Vector and pathway analysis found that A. trimaculatus was introduced to India via the aquarium trade, although consignment origin remains unknown, and the most likely means of entry into the river and its tributaries was the species’ escaping from holding facilities. Subsequent dispersal and impact of the species on native fauna are discussed. The study's outcomes demonstrate the importance of using risk analysis protocols to inform management of non‐native species in India, with suggestions provided for immediate and long‐term measures for the species’ management.

中文翻译：

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非自然三斑丽鱼科鱼（Amphilophus trimaculatus）在卡弗里河（印度）中的风险分析

三斑丽鱼科鱼Amphilophus trimaculatus（Günther）是一种观赏鱼，已知具有入侵性，但尚未在印度进行评估。本研究使用常规方法和分子方法证实了该非本地物种的身份，以及该物种在River Cauvery的出现，这是该物种首次在其本土范围以外的干旱环境中发生。肠含量分析表明饮食以昆虫为主。河流的水质和栖息地有利于该物种的生长和繁殖。使用水生生物入侵筛选试剂盒，三叶草被列为“高”风险，在河豚草中受到入侵，气候匹配分析显示与该物种的本地范围相似度为58％。媒介和途径分析发现尽管寄养产地仍然未知，但曲尾草通过水族贸易被引入印度，最有可能进入该河流及其支流的方法是该物种从饲养设施中逃脱。讨论了该物种随后对本地动物的传播和影响。这项研究的结果证明了使用风险分析协议为印度非本地物种的管理提供信息的重要性，并提供了有关该物种管理的近期和长期措施的建议。