A recent investigation delves into teh impact of shipping, currents, and environmental factors on the spread of non-native species through the Suez Canal. Completed in 1869, this man-made waterway connected two marine regions that had been separated for 16 million years. As a result, notable ecological changes have occurred and continue to this day.
The study reveals that over 100 fish species from the indo-West Pacific Ocean have successfully crossed into the mediterranean Sea, including the notorious “devil firefish.” But how do these invaders make thier journey?
researchers from American University of Beirut and American University in Dubai conducted a thorough analysis of invasive fish colonization in the Mediterranean. By combining ocean current modeling, shipping data, and environmental analysis, they were able to map out both natural and human-driven factors that contribute to accomplished invasions.
Their findings published in NeoBiota show that proximity to the Suez Canal and sea currents play a crucial role in initial entry into the Mediterranean. Though, as time goes on, cargo shipping has become increasingly influential in spreading non-native fish. Focal points like Malta act as key stepping stones for these invaders to reach western Mediterranean areas.
Moreover, local conditions such as high salinity also increase their chances of establishing permanent populations since these fish are pre-adapted to saline environments from their native habitats.
Lead author Heinrich zu Dohna explains: “Scientists have long suspected that anti-clockwise spread of invasive species in eastern Mediterranean is due to currents while high number first records at Malta is due to shipping.” The team’s use of sea current simulations and shipping data confirmed these assumptions while providing quantitative estimates on their effects.Logistic regression models also revealed that certain regions experience up to six times higher odds of receiving invasive species due to increased shipping activity. This highlights the need for targeted management and monitoring at major shipping hubs like Malta.
To address this issue effectively requires better data on ballast water release and ship movements in the mediterranean. As cargo shipping’s impact on biological invasions becomes increasingly evident, policymakers and marine managers must pay special attention to Malta as a major shipping hub.
Original source: zu Dohna H, Lakkis I, Bariche M (2025) The spread of Indo-Pacific origin fish species in the Mediterranean Sea is influenced by sea currents, habitat factors, and increasingly by shipping. neobiota 101: 73-89. https://doi.org/10.3897/neobiota.101.157775
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Overfishing and the aquarium trade are likely sources of invasive fish in the Mediterranean Sea.