Marine Biological Invasions

About this book

Biological invasions are one of the main causes of biodiversity decline worldwide. While Japanese knotweed and tiger mosquito are invasive species well known to the public, the same cannot be said for the American blue crab or the green alga Caulerpa, both of which are now ravaging the Mediterranean Basin. Marine biological invasions receive scant media coverage, despite the fact that their effects on biodiversity, human activities and the economy are just as worrying and as far-reaching as terrestrial invasions.

Which marine species are considered invasive? How are they introduced? What impacts do they have on local marine biodiversity? And, above all, what management methods can be used to contain them, or even to harness their potential benefits? This timely volume offers some answers to these key questions, while raising many more.

Philippe Goulletquer reviews the latest advances in research into the detection, prevention, control and management of marine invasive species, in light of the various new regulations now in effect. He highlights international, European and national strategies and presents case studies on certain species of great concern. This book is intended for those, whether in a professional capacity or simply out of interest, who are worried about current environmental imbalances and want to know more about ways of combating them.

Contents

Introduction: Are terrestrial invasive species getting all the media attention?

What do we know about biological invasions?
- What do we mean by ‘invasive species’?
- How does a biological invasion take place?
- Why should we care about invasive alien species?
- What is the situation in mainland France and the French overseas territories?

How are exotic marine species introduced?
- A historical perspective on species introductions
- Current introduction vectors
- Current routes of introduction
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- What are the impacts of biological invasions?
- Characteristics and methods of impact assessment
- Case studies
- Importance of the ecosystem approach and analyses

How can we manage biological invasions?
- Voluntary introductions
- Unintentional or accidental introductions
- Prevention and regulatory measures
- Surveillance of entry routes
- Raising public awareness of biological invasions
- Once an invasive species is established what means can be used for its control?
- How can marine invasive species be successfully eradicated?
- Some cases of eradication

How can research and expertise contribute?
- Assessing risks
- Improving the detection of invasive alien species
- Assessing the risks and impacts following an introduction
- What are the expectations for research in the short and medium term?

Conclusion: Invasive marine species: what does the future hold?

References

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