Collecting in Florida?

[Nebraska_cichlids]

Hi!
I am trying to locate Sarotherodon melanotheron (aka Black Chin tilapia). Apparently, this West African species has been released in Florida and can be found in some locations. I was wondering whether there are any Florida-based hobbyists on this forum who collect fish and can get me a small group? I do have some information available about the species' distribution in Florida. Thanks.
JZ

 

[Lisachromis]

It may pay off to go to facebook and ask Chuck Davis. He collects in Florida.

 

[Nebraska_cichlids]

Thanks. I appreciate the referral.

 

[viejo]

Janos, I know that they were found in abundance @ Lithia Springs which is located East of Tampa. You may encounter a problem here as 'tilapia' are a no-no for possession in Florida. However, if you do manage to acquire some ..........
BTW: They have great colors!

 

[Nebraska_cichlids]

Thanks, Larry. Your concern has also been shared with e by another hobbyist. It is a strange law, though, since the fish would be taken out of Florida. Well, I probably shouldn't pursue this any further.

Janos

 

[Lisachromis]

Just check your local laws about keeping them. I know in many southern states they are illegal since they do so well in the local waterways (as you've noted ).

 

[Nebraska_cichlids]

Lisa,
To the best of my knowledge there wouldn't be any legal issues with keeping them in my home state, Nebraska. It is getting cold enough in winter that no tropical fish would stand a chance of survival. I think that what Larry was getting at is that one couldn't catch them in Florida and hold them for shipping out of state. Perhaps I am too concerned about it, but I sure don't want any troubles with the folks from wildlife, and I would not want to get a hobbyist collector in trouble.
Janos