Range expansion of the non-native Megalamphodus eques (Characiformes: Acestrorhamphidae) to the Laguna dos Patos system, southern Brazil

ABSTRACT The non-native species Megalamphodus eques (Steindachner, 1882) (Characiformes: Acestrorhamphidae) was detected in the Laguna dos Patos system, southern Brazil, based on specimens collected in the Gravataí River basin-one of the five rivers flowing into the Jacuí River Delta, Rio Grande do Sul State. Megalamphodus eques is native to the Amazonas, Paraguay, lower Paraná, and Uruguay River basins. Possible invasion pathways are briefly discussed, including artificial connections between drainage basins and anthropogenic introduction, as the species is widely cultivated and valued in the ornamental fish trade.