Discovery of distinct species of largemouth bass in Florida is crucial.

Florida's most popular freshwater game fish has a new name.

The largemouth bass, commonly found in Florida's waterways, is now referred to as the Florida bass, as per a July 17 news release from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).

A recent study by Yale University has determined that Florida bass is its own species through advanced genetic analysis.

The Florida bass was acknowledged as a distinct species by the American Fisheries Society.

The website of the Maryland-based organization states that it supports scientific research and sustainable management of fisheries resources.

The scientific name for the largemouth bass has changed from "Micropterus salmoides" to "Micropterus nigricans."

Over the past 75 years, the names "have been incorrectly assigned to the largemouth bass and Florida bass," according to a study.

The study found that the size of Florida bass is greater than previously thought.

The FWC's news release stated that the range encompasses not only Florida but also parts of Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina.

"Understanding these distinctions is essential for effective conservation and management of the species."

Michelle Kerr, a spokesperson for the FWC, confirmed to Planet Chronicle Digital in an email that this discovery is crucial because it confirms and enhances our understanding of Florida bass as a distinct species.

"To ensure sustainable fishing and biodiversity preservation, it is crucial to comprehend the differences between the species."

The Florida and largemouth bass are well-known freshwater fish and the most popular for recreational fishing, according to the FWC's website.

The FWC stated that the new comprehension of black bass diversity, distribution, and classification is crucial for effective management and conservation of these renowned fish.

"It will help maintain their preservation and sustainable utilization for the benefit of future generations."

In most of Florida, the largemouth bass is now recognized as the state's official bass.

In Florida's western panhandle, ongoing research may further define the western range of this species within the state, according to Kerr.

This new revelation won't undo Florida's current largemouth bass fishing record.

In 1986, in Polk County near Orlando, the state record for the largemouth bass was set by Billy O'Berry, who caught a fish weighing 17.27 pounds, as per the FWC.

Kerr stated that the record in question is within the accepted range of Florida bass.

If an angler caught a Florida bass, they wouldn't be able to tell the difference.

The FWC stated that Florida bass and largemouth bass are indistinguishable visually.

"Genetic testing must be performed to determine the species."

Anglers needn't worry, however.

The FWC announced that the regulations for both species in the state will remain unchanged.

In 1975, the largemouth bass was designated as the official state freshwater fish by the Florida Legislature.

The name change may result in a reduction of state rank.