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Predicting habitat suitability for alien macroalgae in relation to thermal niche occupancy
Sandra Hernández1, Brezo D-C Martínez2, Celia Olabarria1
1CIM-Centro de Investigación Mariña, Universidade de Vigo, EcoCost, Facultade de Ciencias del Mar, Edificio CC Experimentais, Campus de Vigo, As Lagoas-Marcosende, 36310 Vigo, Spain.
Marine Pollution Bulletin
|September 20, 2024
Summary
Climate change impacts invasive macroalgae distribution in Europe. Species distribution models reveal warming influences large scales, while river and transport factors dominate regionally, aiding prevention strategies.
Area of Science:
- Marine biology
- Ecology
- Climate change research
Background:
- Invasive species pose a significant threat to global biodiversity.
- Invasive macroalgae can interact with climate change components, impacting ecosystems.
- Understanding invasion dynamics is crucial for effective management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify key variables influencing the distribution of six invasive macroalgae on European coasts.
- To analyze the thermal niche occupation of these invasive species.
- To predict areas at high risk of future invasions.
Main Methods:
- Utilized species distribution models (SDMs) at various spatial scales and resolutions.
- Assessed the influence of climatic and non-climatic variables on macroalgae distribution.
- Combined SDMs with thermal niche analysis to understand invasion processes.
Main Results:
- Climatic variables, particularly warming, were more influential at large spatial scales.
- Non-climatic variables like river influence and maritime transport were key at regional scales.
- Invasive macroalgae often occupied thermal niches colder than their native ranges.
Conclusions:
- The integration of SDMs and thermal niche analysis effectively clarifies invasion processes.
- This approach aids in developing preventive strategies and early detection systems for biopollutants.
- Informed management decisions can mitigate the impact of invasive macroalgae.
