Primary detection records for aquatic nonindigenous species in global estuarine and marine ecosystems and the Great Lakes

Aim

The introduction of aquatic non-indigenous species (ANS) has become a major driver for global changes in species biogeography. We examined spatial patterns and temporal trends of ANS detections since 1965 to inform conservation policy and management. 

Location

Global

Methods

We assembled an extensive dataset of first records of detection of ANS (1965-2015) across 49 aquatic ecosystems, including the i) year of first collection, ii) population status and iii) potential pathway(s) of introduction. Data were analysed at global and regional levels to assess patterns of detection rate, richness, and transport pathways. 

Results

An annual mean of 43 (± 16 S.D.) primary detections of ANS occurred – one new detection every 8.4 days for 50 years. The global rate of detections was relatively stable during 1965-1995, but increased rapidly after this time, peaking at roughly 66 primary detections per year during 2005-2010, then declining marginally. Detection rates were var...