Ocorrência e distribuição espacial de Heterotilapia buttikoferi (Hubrecht, 1881) na poligonal, Raia Norte do lago Paranoá, Brasília, Distrito Federal

The presence of exotic species in freshwater ecosystems represents one of the greatest challenges to the conservation of aquatic biodiversity, since it can lead to profound ecological changes, such as competition with native species and alterations in the food chain. Heterotilapia buttikoferi, popularly known as zebra tilapia, is a cichlid native to West Africa that has been introduced into Brazilian artificial reservoirs in recent years. This study aimed to document the occurrence and map the spatial distribution of the species in the polygon of the northern border of Lake Paranoá, located in Brasília (DF). The methodology included monthly collections for one year, using sport fishing with a line, underwater fishing in apnea, free diving with direct observation, and interviews with local fishermen and divers. The information was georeferenced with the Navionics application, and analyzed in the QGIS software. The results revealed a wide presence of the species at different depths and types of substrate, suggesting its adaptation and probable reproduction in the location. This is the first record of the species in the Central-West region of Brazil and the third in the national territory. The data reinforce the need for strategies aimed at continuous monitoring. population control and regulation of the management of exotic species in Lake Paranoá.