Is recreational boating a potential vector for non-indigenous peracarid crustaceans in the Mediterranean Sea? A combined biological and social approach. (March 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Martínez-Laiz, G.; Ulman, A.; Ros, M.; Marchini, A.
• Is Part Of: Marine pollution bulletin. Volume 140(2019)
• Page Start: 403
• Page End: 415
• Publication Date: 2019-03
• Subjects: Alien species -- Biofouling -- Hull fouling -- Introduction vector -- Marinas -- Environmental awareness; Marine pollution -- Periodicals; Marine Biology -- Periodicals; Water Pollution -- Periodicals; Mer -- Pollution -- Périodiques; Publications périodiques; Pollution des mers; Lutte antipollution; Electronic journals; 363.7394
• DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2019.01.050
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0025-326X

Abstract

Abstract: Shipping is understood to be a major vector for the introduction and spread of marine non-indigenous species (NIS). However, recreational boating is still unregulated and its influence as vector has not yet been assessed for the Mediterranean Sea, which is the second most popular recreational boating destination worldwide. This is the first large-scale study to examine this by a combined biological (analyzing hull and marina fouling) and social approach (boaters surveys on maintenance habits, travel patterns and awareness), focused on peracarid crustaceans. A surprisingly high number of NIS were found on vessels cruising Mediterranean waters, and species compositions suggest an exchange between marina and vessel assemblages. This means recreational boating presents a risk for NIS spread which should warrant regulation. Results also implied that regionally coordinated management should be supported by effective local-scale-based management in the Mediterranean, which could improve upon with targeted environmental education to solve lack of awareness. Highlights: This study examines boating as a vector of non-indigenous species (NIS) introductions. Specifically, peracarid crustaceans are studied in marinas and boats in the Mediterranean. Results show numerous NIS in marinas and vessels and suggest exchanges between them. Vessel maintenance and travel patterns influence the likelihood of NIS occurrence. There is a general lack of awareness of marine bioinvasions among recreational boaters.