Potential Invasive Indo-Pacific Acropora in a Coral Reef of Venezuela: A Contribution to Their Morphological and...

The introduction of invasive species into marine environments is a global crisis, driving significant biodiversity loss. Here, we report the first record of a non-native hermatypic coral in Venezuela, exhibiting biological traits characteristic of invasive species. The coral, a member of the genus Acropora (Scleractinia: Acroporidae) native to the Indo-Pacific, was occupying a discrete 11 m² patch within a reef in Morrocoy National Park, a Marine Protected Area (MPA). Due to the high ecological risk, and with authorization from environmental authorities, we removed all colonies while representative samples were preserved for morphological and molecular characterization. To monitor for recurrence-either from residual fragments or secondary introductions-surveys were conducted every four to 6 months between 2023 and 2025. This intervention follows Early Detection and Rapid Response (EDRR) protocols, emphasizing the necessity of continued surveillance at affected sites. Phylogenetic analysis assigned the non-native specimens to the Acropora tenuis (Dana, 1846) group. The location and species suggest a probable introduction via the marine aquarium trade. Stringent enforcement of environmental regulations and rigorous monitoring of the aquarium trade are imperative to prevent further introductions and the consequent and irreversible loss of marine biodiversity and ecosystem services.