Several fish species from Central America and other regions have been introduced into Brazil. In this study, we evaluated the bioecological aspects of a non‐native cichlid of the genus Amatitlania (convict cichlid) and its possible establishment in high‐altitude forest enclaves of semi‐arid Northeastern Brazil. Specimens of Amatitlania nigrofasciata (Günther, 1867) were captured in a local stream displaying abiotic conditions like those of its natural range of distribution. The individuals collected were predominantly adult, insectivorous and displayed normal length–weight relationships, although we observed some phenotypical plasticity (variation in body depth, and a morphologically abnormal dorsal fin in three cases). Our results indicate that A. nigrofasciata has successfully colonized an Atlantic forest enclave in the Brazilian semi‐arid region, making it necessary to adopt measures to prevent the species from spreading to other water bodies in the surroundings.

We provide extensive surveys in eight estuaries along the coast of Ceará State in Northeastern Brazil, including local samples and data compiled from online data bases and literature. Samplings resulted in a checklist of the estuarine fish fauna, which recorded 126 fish species, and provides original information of some estuaries. Most of the sampled marine species are widely distributed and many are important commercial species for the artisanal fisheries. The addition of records from existing inventories and online collections increases the number of species to 245, of which 11 are threatened (critically endangered or vulnerable) and six are introduced. Our study provides an updated list of fish species of the estuaries along the semiarid coast of Brazil and is intended as a subsidy for further research, conservation and management efforts.

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