Bartram’s and Altamaha bass, first identified in the 1980s, are now officially recognized as distinct species . Researchers at the University of Georgia have formally identified two previously unrecognized species of black bass in a newly published study: Bartram’s bass and Altamaha bass. Bartram’s bass have been recorded at 14 sites within the Savannah and Saluda River basins, while Altamaha bass were collected at 14 sites in the Altamaha and Ogeechee River basins. Bartram’s bass are light gold, with patterned dark brown blotches on the sides, a rosy-pink fin and a mottled belly. The introduction of other Micropterus species from outside their native ranges opens the door to hybridization, potentially challenging their future.