Impacts of introduced seaweeds
In: Botanica Marina. Walter de Gruyter & Co: Berlin; New York. ISSN 0006-8055; e-ISSN 1437-4323, more
Also appears in:Johnson, C.G. (Ed.) (2007). Seaweed invasions: a synthesis of ecological, economic and legal imperatives. Botanica Marina, 50(5-6). Walter De Gruyter: Berlin. ISBN 978-3-11-019534-7. 321-457 pp., more
|  |
| Keywords |
Control
Economic impacts
Eradication
Taxa > Species > Introduced species
Marine/Coastal |
| Author keywords |
control; ecological impacts; economic impacts; eradication; introducedmacroalgae |
| Authors | | Top |
- Schaffelke, B.
- Hewitt, C.L.
|
|
|
| Abstract |
We analyzed 69 publications on the impacts of introduced seaweeds. The predominant impacts were changed competitive relationships in the recipient habitat, indicated by high abundances of invaders, resultant space monopolization, and reduced abundances/biomass of native macrophytes. Changes in biodiversity, effects on fish and invertebrate fauna, toxic effects on other biota, and habitat change were also identified. The mechanisms underlying the manifestation of impacts are uncertain and inferences about common patterns were hampered because impact studies were available for only a few introduced seaweeds, covered only a fraction of their introduced distribution and generally were conducted over short time scales. There was no information about evolutionary effects or changes of ecosystem processes. Knowledge of socio-economic impacts of invasive seaweeds is poor. We collated costs associated with control/eradication activities and for national spending on marine biosecurity in Australia, New Zealand and the United States. Prevention of impacts is the driving force for costly surveillance, eradication and control programs. Until we are able to understand, predict and measure impacts of introduced seaweeds, the management of species incursions needs to remain focused on early detection, rapid response and control to reduce the likelihood of negative impact effects. |
|
