Shipping is known to be a major vector for introduction and spread of marine non-indigenous species (NIS), however, biofouling remains unregulated and fouling on recreational boats has been overlooked. This is the first large-scale study exploring the role recreational boating plays in NIS transport across the Mediterranean Sea, focusing on Peracarida. A combined biological and social approach was used by analyzing the community from boat hulls and marina docks across the Mediterranean; and by conducting interviews with boat owners. A surprisingly high number of alien peracarids were found on vessels cruising Mediterranean waters. No geographical gradient across the Mediterranean was found regarding vessel fouling composition; local conditions of each marina played a bigger role. Boats with lenient cleaning habits which undertake long journeys were more susceptible to host peracarids. This study proves that recreational boating is a high-risk vector in the Mediterranean Sea, and that there is a lack of awareness among boaters, which calls for environmental education strategies.
A combined biological and social approach to test the role of recreational boating as vector for exotics: the case of peracarids in the Mediterranean Sea
MARTINEZ LAIZ, GEMMA;ULMAN, AYLIN H;MARCHINI, AGNESE
2017-01-01
Abstract
Shipping is known to be a major vector for introduction and spread of marine non-indigenous species (NIS), however, biofouling remains unregulated and fouling on recreational boats has been overlooked. This is the first large-scale study exploring the role recreational boating plays in NIS transport across the Mediterranean Sea, focusing on Peracarida. A combined biological and social approach was used by analyzing the community from boat hulls and marina docks across the Mediterranean; and by conducting interviews with boat owners. A surprisingly high number of alien peracarids were found on vessels cruising Mediterranean waters. No geographical gradient across the Mediterranean was found regarding vessel fouling composition; local conditions of each marina played a bigger role. Boats with lenient cleaning habits which undertake long journeys were more susceptible to host peracarids. This study proves that recreational boating is a high-risk vector in the Mediterranean Sea, and that there is a lack of awareness among boaters, which calls for environmental education strategies.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
