Same Fish, New Name: Largemouths Now Florida Bass

What’s in a name? Whether it’s “largemouth bass" or "Florida bass," state anglers know a great fish when they hook one.

Florida’s most popular freshwater fish species now has an official name. The American Fisheries Society established the Florida bass as a separate species from the largemouth bass, said the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission in a news release. The name change will only impact references in state regulations and other communications.

In most of Florida (except the western Panhandle) largemouth bass are now considered Florida bass.

According to a recent study by Yale University, advanced genetic analysis determined that Florida bass are their own species. The research also identified the range of Florida bass to be larger than once believed, including not only Florida, but also parts of Georgia, South Carolina and North Carolina.

The scientific names of these two bass also changed. Largemouth bass, previously Micropterus salmoides, is now the scientific name for Florida bass. Largemouth bass are now Micropterus nigricans.

"Understanding and conserving fish species is crucial for sustainable recreational fishing and biodiversity preservation. The classification of species plays a key role in these efforts. Black basses (Micropterus spp.) are well-known freshwater fish and highly popular for recreational fishing," the FWC said in the news release. "This new understanding of black bass diversity, distribution and classification provides a critical foundation for better managing and conserving these important and iconic fish. It will aid in ensuring their continued conservation and sustainable use for future generations."

Learn more about Florida bass on the FWC website.

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• From a Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission news release

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