Anglers and biologists knew what they were talking about all along! Florida bass are truly one-of-a-kind, and now the largemouth bass has a new name to match.
The American Fisheries Society has officially recognized them as a distinct species from the largemouth bass. This means that in most of Florida (except the western Panhandle), what you used to call a largemouth bass is now a Florida Bass.
Don’t worry; this title change won’t affect how you chase these iconic fighters. But it’s a big deal for science!
Recent research at Yale University confirmed their unique status using fancy genetic analysis. The study also revealed that Florida bass aren’t just Sunshine State residents – they extend their range into parts of Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina.
To reflect this new understanding, scientists have updated the scientific names: Florida bass, previously known as Micropterus salmoides, keeps its new title, while largemouth bass goes by Micropterus nigricans.
Here’s why this matters: understanding and protecting fish varieties is key to healthy ecosystems and sustainable fishing. By recognizing Florida bass as a distinct species, we gain crucial knowledge about their distribution and diversity.
This information is essential for managing and conserving these vital fish for future generations. If you’re into fishing, consider subscribing to our Sebastian Inlet Fishing YouTube channel for local updates. It’s Free!
