Latest Articles from NeoBiota Latest 100 Articles from NeoBiota https://neobiota.pensoft.net/ Fri, 29 Mar 2024 15:23:57 +0200 Pensoft FeedCreator https://neobiota.pensoft.net/i/logo.jpg Latest Articles from NeoBiota https://neobiota.pensoft.net/ Effect of residence time on trait evolution in invasive plants: review and meta-analysis https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/109251/ NeoBiota 91: 99-124

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.91.109251

Authors: Michal Gruntman, Udi Segev

Abstract: The success of invasive species is often attributed to rapid post-introduction evolution, due to novel selection pressures at the introduced range. However, evolutionary shifts in invasion-promoting traits can also take place within the introduced range over time. Here, we first present a review of the proposed hypotheses regarding the selection pressures and trait divergence along gradients of invasion history and the studies that examined them. In addition, we present the results of a meta-analysis aimed to provide a more general overview of current knowledge on trait evolution with time since introduction. Invasion-promoting traits, including growth, competitive ability and dispersal ability, were proposed to decline in more established populations with a long invasion history due to the attenuation of selection pressures, such as enemy release or interspecific competition, while herbivore defence was suggested to increase. Our meta-analysis results reveal a general indication for the evolution of invasive plants with residence time for most of the studied traits. However, this divergence did not have a consistent direction in most traits, except for growth, which, in contrast with our prediction, increased with residence time. The lack of empirical support for the predicted change in most of the studied traits over time suggests trait evolution might be affected by other context-dependent factors such as climatic gradients along invasion routes. Similarly, the increased allocation to size in older and more established populations may be driven by increased conspecific competition pressure experienced in these populations. The general temporal effect found in our meta-analysis stresses the need to consider population age when comparing attributes of invasive plants between native and invasive ranges. Moreover, the increased size of invasive plants in older populations, suggests that the dominance of these plants might not attenuate with time since introduction, thus highlighting the need to further explore the long-term dynamics between invasive plants and their recipient native communities.

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Research Article Thu, 22 Feb 2024 18:29:51 +0200
Genetic and morphological insights into the Carpobrotus hybrid complex around the world https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/109164/ NeoBiota 89: 135-160

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.89.109164

Authors: Ana Novoa, Heidi Hirsch, María L. Castillo, Susan Canavan, Luís González, David M. Richardson, Petr Pyšek, Jonatan Rodríguez, Lurdes Borges Silva, Giuseppe Brundu, Carla M. D’Antonio, Jorge L. Gutiérrez, Megan Mathese, Sam Levin, Luís Silva, Johannes J. Le Roux

Abstract: The genus Carpobrotus N.E.Br. comprises between 12 and 25 species, most of which are native to South Africa. Some Carpobrotus species are considered among the most damaging invasive species in coastal dune systems worldwide. In their introduced areas, these species represent a serious threat to native species and significantly impact soil conditions and geochemical processes. Despite being well studied, the taxonomy of Carpobrotus remains problematic, as the genus comprises a complex of species that hybridize easily and are difficult to distinguish from each other. To explore the population genetic structure of invasive Carpobrotus species (i.e., C. acinaciformis and C. edulis) across a significant part of their native and non-native ranges, we sampled 40 populations across Argentina, Italy, New Zealand, Portugal, South Africa, Spain, and the USA. We developed taxon-specific microsatellite markers using a Next Generation Sequencing approach to analyze the population genetic structure and incidence of hybridization in native and non-native regions. We identified three genetically distinct clusters, which are present in both the native and non-native regions. Based on a set of selected morphological characteristics, we found no clear features to identify taxa morphologically. Our results suggest that the most probable sources of global introductions of Carpobrotus species are the Western Cape region of South Africa and the coastline of California. We suggest that management actions targeting Carpobrotus invasions globally should focus on preventing additional introductions from the east coast of South Africa, and on searching for prospective biocontrol agents in the Western Cape region of South Africa.

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Research Article Thu, 16 Nov 2023 07:40:24 +0200
Tracing the origins and tracking the movements of invasive rubber vines (Cryptostegia spp., Apocynaceae) https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/109180/ NeoBiota 89: 95-133

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.89.109180

Authors: Marion K. Seier, Alessandro Rapini, Kate M. Pollard, Robert W. Barreto, Harry C. Evans

Abstract: Cryptostegia grandiflora and C. madagascariensis (Apocynaceae) are the only two species of this Madagascan plant genus. Both have been transported around the world as ornamentals due to their attractive flowers and based on a perceived potential as sources of rubber – hence, the common name rubber vine – because of their copious latex, which also contains toxic cardiac glycosides. As a result of their vigorous growth and ability to climb over and smother vegetation, both species have become invasive, posing an actual or potential threat to native ecosystems in many tropical and sub-tropical countries, as well as to human and animal health. Classical biological control (CBC), or the introduction of co-evolved natural enemies to control an invasive alien species in its exotic range, has successfully been used to tackle C. grandiflora in northern Queensland, Australia. This strategy is currently being evaluated for its suitability to manage C. madagascariensis in north-eastern Brazil using the same Madagascan rust fungus, Maravalia cryptostegiae, released as a CBC agent in Australia. For CBC to be successful, it is critical to understand the taxonomy of the invader as well as the origin(s) of its weedy biotype(s) in order to select the best-matched co-evolved natural enemies. Based on an exhaustive search in published and unpublished sources, we summarise the taxonomy and uses of these rubber vines, follow their historical movements and track their earliest records and current weed status in more than 80 countries and territories around the world.

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Review Article Wed, 8 Nov 2023 16:48:27 +0200
Clarification and guidance on the use of the Socio-Economic Impact Classification for Alien Taxa (SEICAT) framework https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/109911/ NeoBiota 89: 45-70

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.89.109911

Authors: Anna F. Probert, Giovanni Vimercati, Sabrina Kumschick, Lara Volery, Sven Bacher

Abstract: Understanding the ways in which alien taxa threaten human well-being, beyond purely monetary costs, can be difficult as impacts differ vastly across social, cultural, and economic contexts. Failure to capture impacts outside of monetary costs means that impacts are unfairly weighted towards those that can be easily monetised, which is unlikely to be a realistic measure of how alien species truly affect human well-being. To address this issue, the Socio-Economic Impact Classification for Alien Taxa (SEICAT) was developed with the intention to facilitate standardised classifications and comparisons of the impacts of alien taxa on human well-being and livelihood. The framework measures impacts by assessing to what extent alien taxa have altered human activities, so has application across a broad range of reported impacts associated with different constituents of human well-being. Although in their original paper, Bacher et al. (2018) provided an overview of the SEICAT framework, comprehensive guidelines that enable assessors to overcome potential ambiguities were, until now, unavailable. This may be preventing the broad application of the framework due to reduced usability. Here, we provide clarification and guidance for the application of SEICAT to facilitate standardised, consistent assessments. In particular, we address uncertainties stemming from unclear definitions of impacted communities and activities, as well as the spatial and temporal scales of relevance. We clarify these key issues and give explicit recommendations, whilst encouraging the collection of additional contextual information to be recorded for each assessed impact report, to generate more practical information for end-users of SEICAT data. Further, we recommend adopting an alternative terminology for the impact categories to reduce the potential misuse of the current descriptors. The intended outcome of this work is to aid the broad application of the SEICAT framework in a consistent and transparent manner.

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Research Article Fri, 3 Nov 2023 18:04:24 +0200
Mining biodiversity databases establishes a global baseline of cosmopolitan Insecta mOTUs: a case study on Platygastroidea (Hymenoptera) with consequences for biological control programs https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/106326/ NeoBiota 88: 169-210

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.88.106326

Authors: Matthew R. Moore, Elijah J. Talamas, Jonathan S. Bremer, Natalie McGathey, James C. Fulton, Zachary Lahey, Jessica Awad, Cheryl G. Roberts, Lynn A. Combee

Abstract: In the past decade, several species of platygastroid wasps were found to be adventive in North America and Europe while under evaluation in quarantine as biological control agents of invasive pests. The scope and relative risk of this phenomenon is not fully known, but it is clearly a trend with implications for classical biological control. As a means of assessing the issue and to provide a global baseline, we implemented a data-mining approach with DNA sequences in the Barcode of Life Database, yielding 201 platygastroid BINs with intercontinental and island distributions. At least fifty-five BINs displayed exact COI barcode matches across continents, with many more BINs scored as inconclusive due to sequence length variation. These intercontinental and island BINs include biocontrol agents known to be adventive, as well as many species identified only to genus with uncertain geographic origins. We provide 2,500 identifications for platygastroid BOLD BINs, 88% to genus, to encourage additional research on this distributional phenomenon. The intercontinental BOLD BINs were compared to literature records and GBIF occurrences of cosmopolitan species to identify gaps and discordance across data sources. Smaller COI barcode datasets from localities in Florida and Germany, including topotypical specimens, revealed more intercontinental matches. We analyzed COI sequences in BOLD for the entirety of Insecta and Araneae to assess this phenomenon more broadly and because these taxa contain many hosts for platygastroid wasps. This method revealed that the intercontinental distribution phenomenon is widespread with implications for assessing biological diversity, taxonomic methodology and regulatory frameworks.

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Research Article Thu, 26 Oct 2023 17:15:06 +0300
Emerging tree diseases are accumulating rapidly in the native and non-native ranges of Holarctic trees https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/103525/ NeoBiota 87: 143-160

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.87.103525

Authors: Andrew V. Gougherty

Abstract: Emerging infectious diseases threaten natural and managed trees worldwide – causing reduced vigour, increased mortality and, occasionally, extirpation – yet we have little understanding of how emerging diseases have accumulated over time and how accumulation has varied by host species, host nativity and in different global regions. To address this challenge, I assembled over 900 new disease reports on 284 tree species in 88 countries and quantified how emerging infectious diseases have accumulated geographically and on different hosts. I show disease accumulation is increasing rapidly globally, with numerous recent years having nearly twice the number of new records as the twenty-year average and the number of new reports doubling every ~ 11 years. Of the tree genera assessed, Pinus had by far the most new diseases reported over the last several decades, likely reflecting both its large native range in the Northern Hemisphere and its wide use in forestry globally. Most hosts tend to accumulate more diseases in their native ranges than their non-native ranges, consistent with pathogen introductions causing most new diseases. Europe and Central Asia had the most accumulated emerging diseases, but accumulation is also increasing rapidly in East Asia. This work suggests that the impacts of emergent tree diseases are likely to continue to compound in the future and threaten native and planted forests worldwide.

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Short Communication Mon, 4 Sep 2023 18:05:03 +0300
The use of species traits in invasive seaweed research: a systematic review https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/97392/ NeoBiota 86: 123-149

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.86.97392

Authors: Abigail L. Mabey, Marc Rius, Dan A. Smale, Jane A. Catford

Abstract: Species traits have been used extensively in invasion science, providing common metrics across taxa and ecosystems that enable comparisons based on the functional responses and effects of biota. However, most work on traits in invasion science has focused on terrestrial plants, despite the vulnerability of aquatic ecosystems to invasive species, such as invasive seaweeds. Research that focuses on individual species of invasive seaweeds has intensified in recent years, yet few studies have synthesised the information learned on species traits to identify commonalities or knowledge gaps in invasion science. Through a systematic review of 322 papers that investigate the traits of seaweed species from across the globe, here we ask – what are the trends and gaps in research that investigates traits of invasive seaweeds? To address this question, we aimed to: (1) identify publication rates and characteristics of the studies examining traits of invasive seaweeds; (2) clarify which and how many species have been investigated; and (3) assess which traits have been measured and how those traits have been used. Our review revealed that study regions for research on invasive seaweed traits were concentrated in Europe and North America. In addition, we found a total of 158 species that have been investigated, with a large proportion of studies (35%) focusing on just two species, Sargassum muticum and Undaria pinnatifida. Our study revealed that the most researched traits were morphological, which were used to address a wide range of research questions. Key research gaps included relatively few studies from Africa, Asia and South America, a lack of papers researching more than one species and a lack of measurements of biomechanical traits. Altogether, this review provides a thorough overview of research progress on species traits of invasive seaweeds and highlights the existing knowledge gaps that may lead to new ways in which the traits of invasive seaweeds can be used to answer important ecological questions.

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Review Article Mon, 10 Jul 2023 10:57:26 +0300
Halyomorpha halys and its egg parasitoids Trissolcus japonicus and T. mitsukurii: the geographic dimension of the interaction https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/102501/ NeoBiota 85: 197-221

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.85.102501

Authors: Francesco Tortorici, Pierluigi Bombi, Laura Loru, Alberto Mele, Silvia Teresa Moraglio, Davide Scaccini, Alberto Pozzebon, Roberto Antonio Pantaleoni, Luciana Tavella

Abstract: Halyomorpha halys (Stål) (Hemiptera, Pentatomidae) was accidentally introduced to North America and Europe, becoming a key pest of many important crops. In its native range, it is attacked by egg parasitoids, including Trissolcus japonicus (Ashmead), considered to be the main species, and T. mitsukurii (Ashmead) (Hymenoptera, Scelionidae). Trissolcus japonicus was detected in North America in 2014 and Europe in 2017, while T. mitsukurii was detected in Australia in the early 20th century and in Europe in 2016. Both species now appear established in the new areas. The present study used the MaxEnt algorithm to clarify the geographic dimension of the potential interaction between H. halys and these two parasitoid species, and to indicate where the release of one or the other parasitoid species is more likely to be effective. We found that the suitability for the two parasitoids overlaps the H. halys native range completely. In invaded areas, T. japonicus showed higher potential habitat suitability at the global scale, compared to T. mitsukurii, and also higher potential suitability at lower latitudes at continental and national scales. These results can substantially improve the effectiveness of biological control against H. halys, by targeting the releases of parasitoids to the areas where each species is most likely to succeed.

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Research Article Tue, 27 Jun 2023 15:27:28 +0300
Where in Europe is Chrysomya albiceps? Modelling present and future potential distributions https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/96687/ NeoBiota 85: 81-99

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.85.96687

Authors: Sérgio José Menezes Rodrigues-Filho, Fabrício dos Santos Lobato, Carlos Henrique Medeiros de Abreu, Maria Teresa Rebelo

Abstract: Chrysomya albiceps (Wiedemann, 1819), a species of blowfly (Diptera, Calliphoridae), historically distributed throughout Southern Europe, has recently dispersed to cooler regions in Europe, which is an intriguing phenomenon. In this work, we used Maxent software to formulate climate suitability using a machine learning technique to investigate this fact. The bioclimatic variables that best explained the climate suitability were Annual Mean Temperature (67.7%) and Temperature Annual Range (21.4%). We found that C. albiceps is climatically suitable for several parts of Europe, except for high altitude areas like the Swiss Alps. In warmer countries such as Portugal, Spain and Italy, the entire coastal territory was the most suitable for the species. Future scenario models show that in these eastern countries and some northern areas, climate suitability has increased. This increase is reinforced when comparing the gains and losses in climate suitability between the present-day model and the future scenario models. These changes are most likely caused by changes in temperature, which is the main explanatory factor among the tested variables, for the climate suitability. As one of the most important species in forensic contexts and a potential myiasis agent, the expansion of C. albiceps to new locations cannot be neglected, and its expansion must be carefully monitored.

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Research Article Mon, 12 Jun 2023 10:43:13 +0300
The rise of the Functional Response in invasion science: a systematic review https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/98902/ NeoBiota 85: 43-79

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.85.98902

Authors: Larissa Faria, Ross N. Cuthbert, James W. E. Dickey, Jonathan M. Jeschke, Anthony Ricciardi, Jaimie T. A. Dick, Jean R. S. Vitule

Abstract: Predicting which non-native species will negatively impact biodiversity is a longstanding research priority. The Functional Response (FR; resource use in relation to availability) is a classical ecological concept that has been increasingly applied to quantify, assess and compare ecological impacts of non-native species. Despite this recent growth, an overview of applications and knowledge gaps across relevant contexts is currently lacking. We conducted a systematic review using a combination of terms regarding FR and invasion science to synthesise scientific studies that apply the FR approach in the field and to suggest new areas where it could have valuable applications. Trends of publications using FR in invasion science and publications about FR in general were compared through the Activity Index. Data were extracted from papers to reveal temporal, bibliographic, and geographic trends, patterns in study attributes such as type of interaction and habitat investigated, taxonomic groups used, and context-dependencies assessed. In total, 120 papers were included in the review. We identified substantial unevenness in the reporting of FRs in invasion science, despite a rapidly growing number of studies. To date, research has been geographically skewed towards North America and Europe, as well as towards predator-prey interactions in freshwater habitats. Most studies have focused on a few species of invertebrates and fishes. Species origin, life stage, environmental temperature and habitat complexity were the most frequently considered context-dependencies. We conclude that while the FR approach has thus far been narrowly applied, it has broad potential application in invasion science and can be used to test major hypotheses in this research field.

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Review Article Fri, 9 Jun 2023 16:50:53 +0300
Negative and positive impacts of alien macrofungi: a global scale database https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/101770/ NeoBiota 85: 23-42

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.85.101770

Authors: Miguel Monteiro, César Capinha, Maria Teresa Ferreira, Martin A. Nuñez, Luís Reino

Abstract: Advances in ecological research during the last decades have led to an improved understanding of the impacts of alien species. Despite that, the effects of alien macrofungi have often received little attention and are still poorly understood. With the aim of reducing this knowledge gap, we compiled a database of the recorded socio-economic and environmental impacts of alien macrofungi. This database was compiled from all relevant sources we could identify, through an exhaustive literature review, considering the identity of known alien taxa and explicit indications of impacts of any kind. In total, 1440 records of both negative and positive impacts were collected for 374 distinct species in different regions of all continents, except Antarctica. The most frequently recorded impacts are related to the mutualistic interactions that these fungi can form with their host plants. In total 47.8% of all records refer to the indirect negative effect of these interactions, by facilitating the colonization of invasive plants, while 38.5% refer to their positive contribution to the growth of forestry species. Less frequently recorded negative impacts included ectomycorrhizal interactions with native plants, plant pathogenicity and human poisoning after ingestion. Additional positive impacts include the use as a food source by native species and human populations and commercial exploitation. Alien macrofungi are an increasingly prevalent component of human-dominated ecosystems, having a diverse array of negative and positive impacts on native biota and human population. Our database provided a first step towards the quantification and mapping of these impacts.

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Research Article Fri, 9 Jun 2023 16:48:32 +0300
Worldwide tests of generic attractants, a promising tool for early detection of non-native cerambycid species https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/91096/ NeoBiota 84: 169-209

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.84.91096

Authors: Alain Roques, Lili Ren, Davide Rassati, Juan Shi, Evgueni Akulov, Neil Audsley, Marie-Anne Auger-Rozenberg, Dimitrios Avtzis, Andrea Battisti, Richard Bellanger, Alexis Bernard, Iris Bernadinelli, Manuela Branco, Giacomo Cavaletto, Christian Cocquempot, Mario Contarini, Béatrice Courtial, Claudine Courtin, Olivier Denux, Miloň Dvořák, Jian-ting Fan, Nina Feddern, Joseph Francese, Emily K. L. Franzen, André Garcia, Georgi Georgiev, Margarita Georgieva, Federica Giarruzzo, Martin Gossner, Louis Gross, Daniele Guarneri, Gernot Hoch, Doris Hölling, Mats Jonsell, Natalia Kirichenko, Antoon Loomans, You-qing Luo, Deborah McCullough, Craig Maddox, Emmanuelle Magnoux, Matteo Marchioro, Petr Martinek, Hugo Mas, Bruno Mériguet, Yong-zhi Pan, Régis Phélut, Patrick Pineau, Ann M. Ray, Olivier Roques, Marie-Cécile Ruiz, Victor Sarto i Monteys, Stefano Speranza, Jiang-hua Sun, Jon D. Sweeney, Julien Touroult, Lionel Valladares, Loïs Veillat, Yuan Yuan, Myron P. Zalucki, Yunfan Zou, Alenka Žunič-Kosi, Lawrence M. Hanks, Jocelyn G. Millar

Abstract: A large proportion of the insects which have invaded new regions and countries are emerging species, being found for the first time outside their native range. Being able to detect such species upon arrival at ports of entry before they establish in non-native countries is an urgent challenge. The deployment of traps baited with broad-spectrum semiochemical lures at ports-of-entry and other high-risk sites could be one such early detection tool. Rapid progress in the identification of semiochemicals for cerambycid beetles during the last 15 years has revealed that aggregation-sex pheromones and sex pheromones are often conserved at global levels for genera, tribes or subfamilies of the Cerambycidae. This possibly allows the development of generic attractants which attract multiple species simultaneously, especially when such pheromones are combined into blends. Here, we present the results of a worldwide field trial programme conducted during 2018–2021, using traps baited with a standardised 8-pheromone blend, usually complemented with plant volatiles. A total of 1308 traps were deployed at 302 sites covering simultaneously or sequentially 13 European countries, 10 Chinese provinces and some regions of the USA, Canada, Australia, Russia (Siberia) and the Caribbean (Martinique). We intended to test the following hypotheses: 1) if a species is regularly trapped in significant numbers by the blend on a continent, it increases the probability that it can be detected when it arrives in other countries/continents and 2) if the blend exerts an effective, generic attraction to multiple species, it is likely that previously unknown and unexpected species can be captured due to the high degree of conservation of pheromone structures within related taxa. A total of 78,321 longhorned beetles were trapped, representing 376 species from eight subfamilies, with 84 species captured in numbers greater than 50 individuals. Captures comprised 60 tribes, with 10 tribes including more than nine species trapped on different continents. Some invasive species were captured in both the native and invaded continents. This demonstrates the potential of multipheromone lures as effective tools for the detection of ‘unexpected’ cerambycid invaders, accidentally translocated outside their native ranges. Adding new pheromones with analogous well-conserved motifs is discussed, as well as the limitations of using such blends, especially for some cerambycid taxa which may be more attracted by the trap colour or other characteristics rather than to the chemical blend.

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Research Article Thu, 18 May 2023 18:00:08 +0300
Pining away and at home: global utilisation of Pinus radiata by native and non-native insects https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/95864/ NeoBiota 84: 137-167

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.84.95864

Authors: Eckehard G. Brockerhoff, Belinda A. Gresham, Nicolas Meurisse, Helen F. Nahrung, Anouchka Perret-Gentil, Andrew R. Pugh, Stephanie L. Sopow, Rebecca M. Turner

Abstract: Pinus radiata (radiata pine or Monterey pine) is threatened in its native range in California and, at the same time, one of the most widely-planted tree species worldwide, especially in the southern hemisphere. It is affected by a wide range of plant-feeding insects both in its native range and in regions where it is planted as an introduced tree. In addition, there are many invasive insects that have colonised P. radiata, in some cases causing major damage. Here, our objectives were to provide a complete and up-to-date overview of all insect species recorded from P. radiata worldwide, to summarise where these insects are native and which countries or regions they have invaded, to categorise them according to their impacts as damaging species or as vectors of plant pathogens, and to examine border interceptions to determine whether pathways exist that would allow these species to enter and potentially invade additional regions. Our compilation of insects feeding on P. radiata provides a list of 649 species (and an additional 11 species identified at the genus level only). Coleoptera is the most represented order in the list (299 species), followed by Lepidoptera (224 species) and Hemiptera (65 species). We classified 28 species as high-impact, including 12 true bark beetles (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Scolytinae), eight Lepidoptera, five other Coleoptera, two Hymenoptera and one Hemiptera. These species can cause substantial direct damage or act as vectors of highly-damaging plant pathogens. Other species cause only occasional damage, rarely requiring management (classified as ‘low-medium impact’) or they are generally benign (‘negligible impact’). Hemiptera and Scolytinae have a high proportion of species established outside their native range. The Nearctic and Neotropic regions have been invaded by the most high-impact species, mainly by species native to Europe. Border interceptions of 185 species (29% of those on our list) were recorded during import inspections between 1995–2021, indicating considerable potential for further invasions. The findings of our study can be used to identify potential high-impact invaders and the pathways that may require more phytosanitary attention. Furthermore, our analyses provide useful insights into the insect-plant interactions resulting from the global distribution of a tree species and the native and non-native insects feeding on it.

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Research Article Thu, 18 May 2023 18:00:07 +0300
Jewels on the go: exotic buprestids around the world (Coleoptera, Buprestidae) https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/90829/ NeoBiota 84: 107-135

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.84.90829

Authors: Enrico Ruzzier, Robert A. Haack, Gianfranco Curletti, Alain Roques, Mark G. Volkovitsh, Andrea Battisti

Abstract: Buprestidae (Coleoptera: Buprestoidea) is one of the three wood-borer beetle groups of major phytosanitary interest worldwide, together with Cerambycidae and Scolytinae (Curculionidae). As in other beetle families, some buprestid species have been unintentionally or intentionally introduced around the world, in some cases causing significant environmental and economic damage in the invaded territories. Despite the phytosanitary relevance of the Buprestidae, information regarding the identity of exotic buprestids, their biogeographic areas of origin, introduction pathways, and larval host plants, have remained scattered in the literature. Our objective was to summarize much of the existing knowledge on these topics in the present paper. Our analysis resulted in a list of 115 exotic buprestids worldwide, representing introductions both within and between biogeographic realms and corresponding to less than 1% of the known buprestid species worldwide. Invasiveness does not seem to be linked to their larval host plant preferences, as introduced species utilize 158 plant genera in 70 plant families and are equally represented in all feeding guilds (monophagous, oligophagous, and polyphagous). As trade of plants or plant parts can serve as a pathway for future introductions, the information reported in this review can help in pest risk assessment.

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Research Article Thu, 18 May 2023 18:00:06 +0300
Cosmopolitan Scolytinae: strong common drivers, but too many singularities for accurate prediction https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/89826/ NeoBiota 84: 81-105

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.84.89826

Authors: Jean-Claude Grégoire, Hervé Jactel, Jiri Hulcr, Andrea Battisti, Daegan Inward, Françoise Petter, Fabienne Grousset

Abstract: Many scolytine beetle species have been expanding in new territories, travelling with wood and plants for planting, sometimes with a high impact on plant health. Here, we attempt to quantify the mobility of these species and to identify the biological drivers of mobility and impact. Mobility was estimated by counting the numbers of landmasses (contiguous pieces of land, surrounded by ocean or sea) colonised by each species. A series of potential drivers (taxonomic tribes; feeding regimes; polyphagy; reproductive strategy; host taxa; aggregation pheromones and long-range primary attractants), as well as impact on host health were recorded. A total of 163 species were identified, out of 5546 counted in the whole subfamily. The cosmopolitan taxa amongst the subfamily showed significant disharmony with regards to invasion frequency. Four tribes (Xyleborini; Ipini; Crypturgini; Hylastini) were significantly over-represented and two others (Corthylini; Hexacolini) were under-represented. Some 53% of the 163 species are inbreeding, a very significant excess as compared to the whole subfamily (29%). The inbreeders colonised more landmasses than the outbreeders. There is a significant relationship between the number of host families attacked by a species and the number of colonised landmasses. Most of the invasive species are recorded to respond to long-range host primary attractants, only one quarter respond to pheromones. All very mobile species respond to long-range primary attractants and none is known to respond to pheromones. Very mobile species are all associated with a substantial or moderate impact. The most mobile species belong to a limited number of subtribes. They are often inbreeding, polyphagous and respond to long-range primary attractants, but do not produce pheromones. However, there are many counter-examples. The outbreeding Scolytus multistriatus attacks only three host families, producing aggregation pheromones and has established in thirteen landmasses, with a high impact. Due to these many exceptions, species-based risk prediction relying on the few traits routinely analysed in literature suffers from important uncertainties.

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Research Article Thu, 18 May 2023 18:00:05 +0300
Shining a LAMP on the applications of isothermal amplification for monitoring environmental biosecurity https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/97998/ NeoBiota 82: 119-144

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.82.97998

Authors: Nathan Deliveyne, Jennifer M. Young, Jeremy J. Austin, Phillip Cassey

Abstract: Environmental biosecurity risks associated with the transnational wildlife trade include the loss of biodiversity, threats to public health, and the proliferation of invasive alien species. To assist enforcement agencies in identifying species either intentionally (trafficked) or unintentionally (stowaway) entrained in the trade-chain pathway, rapid forensic techniques are needed to enable their detection from DNA samples when physical identification is not possible. Loop Mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP) is an emerging technique, with recent applications in biosecurity and forensic sciences, which has potential to function as a field-based detection tool. Here we provide an overview of current research that applies LAMP to environmental biosecurity, including identification of ornamental wildlife parts, consumer products, and invasive species monitoring and biosecurity detection. We discuss the current scope of LAMP as applied to various wildlife trade scenarios and biosecurity checkpoint monitoring, highlight the specificity, sensitivity, and robustness for these applications, and review the potential utility of LAMP for rapid field-based detection at biosecurity checkpoints. Based on our assessment of the literature we recommend broader interest, research uptake, and investment in LAMP as an appropriate field-based species detection method for a wide range of environmental biosecurity scenarios.

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Review Article Fri, 24 Feb 2023 18:57:25 +0200
The TOP-100 most dangerous invasive alien species in Northern Eurasia: invasion trends and species distribution modelling https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/96282/ NeoBiota 82: 23-56

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.82.96282

Authors: Varos Petrosyan, Fedor Osipov, Irina Feniova, Natalia Dergunova, Andrey Warshavsky, Lyudmila Khlyap, Andrew Dzialowski

Abstract: Northern Eurasia is extensive and includes terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems that cover several natural zones and access to the seas of three oceans. As a result, it has been invaded by numerous invasive alien species (IAS) over large temporal and spatial scales. The purpose of this research was to assess invasion trends and construct species distribution models for the Russian TOP-100 most dangerous IAS. Environmentally suitable regions for IAS were established based on alien species attribute databases, datasets of 169,709 species occurrence records (SOR) and raster layers of environmental variables using species distribution modelling (MaxEnt). The objectives of this research were to (1) create databases of SOR for the TOP-100 IAS in Russia; 2) determine pathways, residence time, donor regions and trends of invasions; (3) determine the main types of spatial distributions of invasive species and their relation to residence time; and (4) distinguish regions with the highest richness of IAS that have a strong impact on the terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems of Russia. We found that although species invasions date back over 400 years, the number of naturalized IAS has increased non-linearly over the past 76 years. The TOP-100 list is mainly represented by unintentionally introduced species (62%) which are characterized by different introduction pathways. Species occurrence records revealed that 56 IAS are distributed locally, 26 are distributed regionally and 18 are widespread in Russia. Species with local, regional or widespread distributions were characterized by residence times of 55, 126 or 190 years, respectively. We found that IAS with local distribution can expand their range into suitable regions more extensively (expected increase by 32%) than widespread species (expected increase by only 7%). The procedure of identifying hot/cold spots locations based on SOR allowed us to identify the Russian regions with the highest richness of IAS. Our results and the integrated database that we created provide a framework for studying IAS over large temporal and spatial scales that can be used in the development of management plans for dangerous IAS.

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Research Article Thu, 2 Feb 2023 18:31:44 +0200
Knowledge needs in economic costs of invasive species facilitated by canalisation https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/95050/ NeoBiota 78: 207-223

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.78.95050

Authors: Paride Balzani, Ross N. Cuthbert, Elizabeta Briski, Bella Galil, Gustavo A. Castellanos-Galindo, Antonín Kouba, Melina Kourantidou, Brian Leung, Ismael Soto, Phillip J. Haubrock

Abstract: Canals provide wide-ranging economic benefits, while also serving as corridors for the introduction and spread of aquatic alien species, potentially leading to negative ecological and economic impacts. However, to date, no comprehensive quantifications of the reported economic costs of these species have been done. Here, we used the InvaCost database on the monetary impact of invasive alien species to identify the costs of those facilitated by three major canal systems: the European Inland Canals, Suez Canal, and Panama Canal. While we identified a staggering number of species having spread via these systems, monetary costs have been reported only for a few. A total of $33.6 million in costs have been reported from species linked to European Inland Canals (the fishhook waterflea Cercopagis pengoi and the zebra mussel Dreissena polymorpha) and $8.6 million linked to the Suez Canal (the silver-cheeked toadfish Lagocephalus sceleratus, the lionfish Pterois miles, and the nomad jellyfish Rhopilema nomadica), but no recorded costs were found for species facilitated by the Panama Canal. We thus identified a pervasive lack of information on the monetary costs of invasions facilitated by canals and highlighted the uneven distribution of costs.

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Short Communication Mon, 19 Dec 2022 18:36:26 +0200
Complex origins indicate a potential bridgehead introduction of an emerging amphibian invader (Eleutherodactylus planirostris) in China https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/83205/ NeoBiota 77: 23-37

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.77.83205

Authors: Yanhua Hong, Yanhong He, Zhiqiang Lin, Yuanbao Du, Shengnan Chen, Lixia Han, Qing Zhang, Shimin Gu, Weishan Tu, Shengwei Hu, Zhiyong Yuan, Xuan Liu

Abstract: Identifying the origins of established alien species is important to prevent new introductions in the future. The greenhouse frog (Eleutherodactylus planirostris), native to Cuba, the Bahamas, and the Cayman Islands, has been widely introduced to the Caribbean, North and Central America, Oceania and Asia. This invasive alien amphibian was recently reported in Shenzhen, China, but the potential introduction sources remain poorly understood. Based on phylogenetic analysis using mitochondrial 16S, COI and CYTB sequences, we detected a complex introduction origin of this species, which may be from Hong Kong, China, the Philippines, Panama and Florida, USA, all pointing to a bridgehead introduction. In addition, the nursery trade between the four countries or regions and mainland China from 2011 to 2020 was also significantly higher than other areas with less likelihood of introductions, which supported the molecular results. Our study provides the first genetic evidence of the potential sources of this emerging amphibian invader in mainland China, which may help develop alien species control strategies in the face of growing trade through globalization.

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Short Communication Fri, 14 Oct 2022 15:36:22 +0300
Development and application of a multilingual electronic decision-support tool for risk screening non-native terrestrial animals under current and future climate conditions https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/84268/ NeoBiota 76: 211-236

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.76.84268

Authors: Lorenzo Vilizzi, Marina Piria, Dariusz Pietraszewski, Oldřich Kopecký, Ivan Špelić, Tena Radočaj, Nikica Šprem, Kieu Anh T. Ta, Ali Serhan Tarkan, András Weiperth, Baran Yoğurtçuoğlu, Onur Candan, Gábor Herczeg, Nurçin Killi, Darija Lemić, Bettina Szajbert, David Almeida, Zainab Al-Wazzan, Usman Atique, Rigers Bakiu, Ratcha Chaichana, Dimitriy Dashinov, Árpad Ferincz, Guillaume Flieller, Allan S. Gilles Jr, Philippe Goulletquer, Elena Interesova, Sonia Iqbal, Akihiko Koyama, Petra Kristan, Shan Li, Juliane Lukas, Seyed Daryoush Moghaddas, João G. Monteiro, Levan Mumladze, Karin H. Olsson, Daniele Paganelli, Costas Perdikaris, Renanel Pickholtz, Cristina Preda, Milica Ristovska, Kristína Slovák Švolíková, Barbora Števove, Eliza Uzunova, Leonidas Vardakas, Hugo Verreycken, Hui Wei, Grzegorz Zięba

Abstract: Electronic decision-support tools are becoming an essential component of government strategies to tackle non-native species invasions. This study describes the development and application of a multilingual electronic decision-support tool for screening terrestrial animals under current and future climate conditions: the Terrestrial Animal Species Invasiveness Screening Kit (TAS-ISK). As an adaptation of the widely employed Aquatic Species Invasiveness Screening Kit (AS-ISK), the TAS-ISK question template inherits from the original Weed Risk Assessment (WRA) and related WRA-type toolkits and complies with the ‘minimum requirements’ for use with the recent European Regulation on invasive alien species of concern. The TAS-ISK consists of 49 basic questions on the species’ biogeographical/historical traits and its biological/ecological interactions, and of 6 additional questions to predict how climate change is likely to influence the risks of introduction, establishment, dispersal and impact of the screened species. Following a description of the main features of this decision-support tool as a turnkey software application and of its graphical user interface with support for 32 languages, sample screenings are provided in different risk assessment areas for one representative species of each of the main taxonomic groups of terrestrial animals supported by the toolkit: mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, annelids, insects, molluscs, nematodes, and platyhelminths. The highest-scoring species were the red earthworm Lumbricus rubellus for the Aegean region of Turkey and the New Zealand flatworm Arthurdendyus triangulatus for Croatia. It is anticipated that adoption of this toolkit will mirror that of the worldwide employed AS-ISK, hence allowing to share information and inform decisions for the prevention of entry and/or dispersal of (high-risk) non-native terrestrial animal species – a crucial step to implement early-stage control and eradication measures as part of rapid-response strategies to counteract biological invasions.

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Research Article Mon, 3 Oct 2022 18:55:10 +0300
Editorial https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/93602/ NeoBiota 76: 1-11

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.76.93602

Authors: Daniela Giannetto, Marina Piria, Ali Serhan Tarkan, Grzegorz Zięba

Abstract: not applicable

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Editorial Mon, 3 Oct 2022 18:55:01 +0300
Forty years of invasion research: more papers, more collaboration...bigger impact? https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/86949/ NeoBiota 75: 57-77

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.75.86949

Authors: Sara E. Campbell, Daniel Simberloff

Abstract: Scientific research has become increasingly collaborative. We systematically reviewed invasion science literature published between 1980 and 2020 and catalogued in Clarivate Analytics Web of Science to examine patterns of authorship and the relationship between co-authorship and annual citation rates. This study analysed 27,234 publications across 1,218 journals and demonstrated that, as the number of publications in invasion science has exponentially increased, the number of authors publishing per year and the average number of authors per paper have also increased. The rising number of authors per paper coincides with a marked decline of single-authored publications; approximately 92% of publications in this dataset were multi-authored, with single-authored papers comprising less than 4% of all papers published in 2020. The increase in multi-authored papers is likely driven by multiple factors, including the widespread perception that collaboration increases scientific quality. The number of authors is positively correlated with perceived research impact; papers with two or more authors produce research that is more frequently cited compared to single-authored papers, and papers with five or more authors have annual citation rates almost double that of single-authored papers. The complexity, context-dependence and urgency of biological invasions contributed to the rise of the highly collaborative field of modern invasion science.

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Research Article Fri, 16 Sep 2022 16:35:00 +0300
Scanning the horizon for invasive plant threats using a data-driven approach https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/83312/ NeoBiota 74: 129-154

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.74.83312

Authors: Amy E. Kendig, Susan Canavan, Patti J. Anderson, S. Luke Flory, Lyn A. Gettys, Doria R. Gordon, Basil V. Iannone III, John M. Kunzer, Tabitha Petri, Ian A. Pfingsten, Deah Lieurance

Abstract: Early detection and eradication of invasive plants are more cost-effective than managing well-established invasive plant populations and their impacts. However, there is high uncertainty around which taxa are likely to become invasive in a given area. Horizon scanning that combines a data-driven approach with rapid risk assessment and consensus building among experts can help identify invasion threats. We performed a horizon scan of potential invasive plant threats to Florida, USA—a state with a high influx of introduced species, conditions that are generally favorable for plant establishment, and a history of negative impacts from invasive plants. We began with an initial list of 2128 non-native plant taxa that are known invaders or crop pests. We built on previous invasive species horizon scans by developing data-based criteria to prioritize 100 taxa for rapid risk assessment. The semi-automated prioritization process included selecting taxa “on the horizon” (i.e., not yet in the target location and not on a noxious weed list) with climate matching, naturalization history, “weediness” record, and global commonness. We derived overall invasion risk scores with rapid risk assessment by evaluating the likelihood of each of the taxa arriving, establishing, and having an impact in Florida. Then, following a consensus-building discussion, we identified six plant taxa as high risk, with overall risk scores ranging from 75 to 100 out of a possible 125. The six taxa are globally distributed, easily transported to new areas, found in regions with climates similar to Florida’s, and can impact native plant communities, human health, or agriculture. Finally, we evaluated our initial and final lists for potential biases. Assessors tended to assign higher risk scores to taxa that had more available information. In addition, we identified biases towards four plant families and certain geographical regions of origin. Our horizon scan approach identified taxa conforming to metrics of high invasion risk and used a methodology refined for plants that can be applied to other locations.

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Research Article Fri, 15 Jul 2022 16:48:34 +0300
Native-alien populations—an apparent oxymoron that requires specific conservation attention https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/81671/ NeoBiota 74: 57-74

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.74.81671

Authors: Takalani Nelufule, Mark P. Robertson, John R. U. Wilson, Katelyn T. Faulkner

Abstract: Many countries define nativity at a country-level—taxa are categorised as either alien species or native species. However, there are often substantial within-country biogeographical barriers and so a taxon can be native and alien to different parts of the same country. Here, we use the term ‘native-alien populations’ as a short-hand for populations that result from the human-mediated dispersal of individuals of a species beyond a biogeographical barrier to a point beyond that species’ native range, but that is still within the same political entity as parts of the species’ native range. Based on these criteria, we consider native-alien populations to be biological invasions. However, we argue that, in comparison to other alien populations, native-alien populations: 1) are likely to be closer geographically to their native range; 2) are likely to be phylogenetically and ecologically more similar to native species in their introduced range; and 3) options to control their introduction or manage them will likely be more limited. We argue this means native-alien populations tend to differ from other alien populations in the likelihood of invasion, the types of impacts they have, and in how they can be most effectively managed. We also argue that native-alien populations are similarly a distinct phenomenon from native populations that are increasing in abundance or range extent. And note that native-alien populations are expected to be particularly common in large, ecologically diverse countries with disjunct biomes and ecoregions. Reporting, monitoring, regulating and managing native-alien populations will, we believe, become an increasingly important component of managing global change.

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Discussion Paper Fri, 10 Jun 2022 14:00:11 +0300
Plankton hitch-hikers on naturalists’ instruments as silent intruders of aquatic ecosystems: current risks and possible prevention https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/82636/ NeoBiota 73: 193-219

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.73.82636

Authors: Łukasz Wejnerowski, Tümer Orhun Aykut, Aleksandra Pełechata, Michał Rybak, Tamara Dulić, Jussi Meriluoto, Marcin Krzysztof Dziuba

Abstract: Organism dispersal is nowadays highly driven by human vectors. This also refers to the aquatic organisms that can often silently spread in and invade new waters, especially when human vectors of dispersal act without brakes. Thus, it is mandatory to continuously identify human-mediated mechanisms of organism dispersal and implement proper biosecurity treatments. In this study, we demonstrate how the plankton net – one of the basic instruments in the equipment of every plankton sampling person is a good vector for plankton dispersal and invasions. We also demonstrate whether keeping the net in an ethanol solution after sampling is a proper biosecurity treatment, and what kind of treatments are implemented by people worldwide. The first simulation shows that bloom-forming cyanobacteria can easily infiltrate into the new environment thanks to the nets, and can prosper there. However, ethanol-based biosecurity treatment efficiently prevented their spread and proliferation in the new environment. The second simulation, based on wild plankton from an eutrophic lake, indicates that a plethora of phyto- and zooplankton taxa can infiltrate into the new waterbody through the net and sustain themselves there if the net is only flushed in the waterbody and left to dry after sampling (an approach that is commonly used by naturalists). Here, we also show that native plankton residents strongly shape the fate of hitch-hikers, but some of them like cyanobacteria can successfully compete with residents. Survey data alert us to the fact that the vast majority of biologists use either ineffective or questionable biosecurity treatments and only less than a tenth of samplers implement treatments based on disinfectant liquids. Our results emphasize that the lack of proper biosecurity methods implemented by the biologists facilitates the spread and invasions of plankton including also invasive species of a great nuisance to native ecosystems. Considering that naturalists usually use different instruments that might also be good vectors of plankton dispersal, it is necessary to develop proper uniform biosecurity treatments. No longer facilitating the plankton spread through hydrobiological instruments is the milestone that we, plankton samplers worldwide, should achieve together in the nearest future if we want to continue our desire to explore, understand, protect and save nature.

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Research Article Wed, 25 May 2022 12:41:38 +0300
A review of volunteers’ motivations to monitor and control invasive alien species https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/79636/ NeoBiota 73: 153-175

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.73.79636

Authors: Ana A. Anđelković, Lori Lawson Handley, Elizabete Marchante, Tim Adriaens, Peter M. J. Brown, Elena Tricarico, Laura N. H. Verbrugge

Abstract: People make an important contribution to the study and management of biological invasions, as many monitoring and control projects rely heavily on volunteer assistance. Understanding the reasons why people participate in such projects is critical for successful recruitment and retention of volunteers. We used a meta-synthesis approach to extract, analyze and synthesize the available information from 28 selected studies investigating motivations of volunteers to engage in monitoring and control of invasive alien species (IAS). Our findings show how motivations fit three broad themes, reflecting environmental concerns, social motivations, and personal reasons. An important outcome of this study is the description of motivations that are unique to the IAS context: supporting IAS management, protecting native species and habitats, and livelihood/food/income protection or opportunities. In addition, our study reflects on important methodological choices for investigating volunteer motivations as well as ethical issues that may arise in practice. We conclude with a set of recommendations for project design and future research on volunteer motivations in IAS contexts, emphasizing the importance of collaboration with social scientists.

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Research Article Wed, 25 May 2022 12:35:44 +0300
Threats at home? Assessing the potential ecological impacts and risks of commonly traded pet fishes https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/80542/ NeoBiota 73: 109-136

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.73.80542

Authors: James W. E. Dickey, Gareth Arnott, Ciara L. O. McGlade, Andrew Moore, Gillian E. Riddell, Jaimie T. A. Dick

Abstract: Invasive alien species (IAS) are major drivers of global biodiversity loss, and the poorly regulated international pet trade is a source of emerging and future invaders. Predictions of the likely ecological impacts and risks of such IAS have been significantly enhanced in recent years with new metrics, which require application to many more actual and potential IAS. Hence, this study assesses the potential ecological impacts and risks of two readily available pet trade species: goldfish, Carassius auratus, a species with non-native populations worldwide; and white cloud mountain minnow, Tanichthys albonubes, a species with a limited invasion history to date. First, we compared the per capita feeding rates of these non-native species with two European trophically analogous natives – the stone loach, Barbatula barbatula, and the common minnow, Phoxinus phoxinus – using the Comparative Functional Response method. Second, we used foraging experiments in conspecific pairs to determine synergistic, neutral or antagonistic intraspecific interactions. Third, we performed novel object experiments using the two pet trade species to assess boldness, a known “dispersal enhancing trait”. Goldfish had the highest maximum feeding rates of the four species, while white cloud mountain minnows had the lowest. Neutral interactions were observed for all four species in the paired foraging experiments, with goldfish having the highest consumption and white cloud mountain minnows having the lowest. Goldfish demonstrated greater boldness, being more active during the experimental trials and more likely to approach a novel object than white cloud mountain minnows. Further, combining maximum feeding rates, boldness and species availabilities from our survey of pet shops, we assessed the relative invasion risks (RIR) of the two non-natives. This highlighted goldfish as the higher risk and most worthy of management prioritisation, mirroring its more extensive invasion history. We propose that such metrics have potential to direct future IAS policy decisions and management towards the ever-increasing rates of biological invasions worldwide.

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Research Article Wed, 25 May 2022 01:59:30 +0300
Pathogens co-transported with invasive non-native aquatic species: implications for risk analysis and legislation https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/71358/ NeoBiota 69: 79-102

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.69.71358

Authors: Rachel Foster, Edmund Peeler, Jamie Bojko, Paul F. Clark, David Morritt, Helen E. Roy, Paul Stebbing, Hannah J. Tidbury, Louisa E. Wood, David Bass

Abstract: Invasive Non-Native Species (INNS) can co-transport externally and internally other organisms including viruses, bacteria and other eukaryotes (including metazoan parasites), collectively referred to as the symbiome. These symbiotic organisms include pathogens, a small minority of which are subject to surveillance and regulatory control, but most of which are currently unscrutinized and/or unknown. These putatively pathogenetic symbionts can potentially pose diverse risks to other species, with implications for increased epidemiological risk to agriculture and aquaculture, wildlife/ecosystems, and human health (zoonotic diseases). The risks and impacts arising from co-transported known pathogens and other symbionts of unknown pathogenic virulence, remain largely unexplored, unlegislated, and difficult to identify and quantify. Here, we propose a workflow using PubMed and Google Scholar to systematically search existing literature to determine any known and potential pathogens of aquatic INNS. This workflow acts as a prerequisite for assessing the nature and risk posed by co-transported pathogens of INNS; of which a better understanding is necessary to inform policy and INNS risk assessments. Addressing this evidence gap will be instrumental to devise an appropriate set of statutory responsibilities with respect to these symbionts, and to underpin new and more effective legislative processes relating to the disease screening and risk assessment of INNS.

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Research Article Mon, 18 Oct 2021 10:00:07 +0300
Global costs of plant invasions must not be underestimated https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/74121/ NeoBiota 69: 75-78

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.69.74121

Authors: Ana Novoa, Desika Moodley, Jane A. Catford, Marina Golivets, Jennifer Bufford, Franz Essl, Bernd Lenzner, Zarah Pattison, Petr Pyšek

Abstract: NA

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Letter To The Editor Wed, 13 Oct 2021 09:21:48 +0300
Neonatives and translocated species: different terms are needed for different species categories in conservation policies https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/72849/ NeoBiota 68: 101-104

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.68.72849

Authors: Franz Essl, Petr Pyšek, David M. Richardson

Abstract: There is no abstract for commentaries

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Commentary Tue, 21 Sep 2021 12:00:38 +0300
Towards an open, zoomable atlas for invasion science and beyond https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/66685/ NeoBiota 68: 5-18

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.68.66685

Authors: Jonathan M. Jeschke, Tina Heger, Peter Kraker, Maxi Schramm, Christopher Kittel, Daniel Mietchen

Abstract: Biological invasions are on the rise, and their global impacts on ecosystems, economies and human health are a major challenge. Invasion science is critical to mitigate invader impacts, yet due to the strong increase of data and information in this area, it has become difficult to acquire and maintain an overview of the field. As a result, existing evidence is often not found, knowledge is too rarely transferred to practice, and research is sometimes conducted in pursuit of dead ends. We propose to address these challenges by developing an interactive atlas of invasion science that can be extended to other disciplines in the future. This online portal, which we aim to create in the course of the project described here, will be an evolving knowledge resource and open for anyone to use, including researchers, citizen scientists, practitioners and policy makers. Users will be able to zoom into the major research questions and hypotheses of invasion science, which are connected to the relevant studies published in the field and, if available, the underlying raw data. The portal will apply cutting-edge visualization techniques, artificial intelligence and novel methods for knowledge synthesis.

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Project Description Wed, 18 Aug 2021 10:38:18 +0300
Mind the gap (between assessing risks and prioritizing management) https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/60816/ NeoBiota 68: 1-4

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.68.60816

Authors: Stefano Canessa, Amanda E. Trask, John G. Ewen

Abstract: N/A

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Letter To The Editor Tue, 3 Aug 2021 14:42:06 +0300
Economic costs of biological invasions in the United Kingdom https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/59743/ NeoBiota 67: 299-328

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.67.59743

Authors: Ross N. Cuthbert, Angela C. Bartlett, Anna J. Turbelin, Phillip J. Haubrock, Christophe Diagne, Zarah Pattison, Franck Courchamp, Jane A. Catford

Abstract: Although the high costs of invasion are frequently cited and are a key motivation for environmental management and policy, synthesised data on invasion costs are scarce. Here, we quantify and examine the monetary costs of biological invasions in the United Kingdom (UK) using a global synthesis of reported invasion costs. Invasive alien species have cost the UK economy between US$6.9 billion and $17.6 billion (£5.4 – £13.7 billion) in reported losses and expenses since 1976. Most costs were reported for the entire UK or Great Britain (97%); country-scale cost reporting for the UK's four constituent countries was scarce. Reports of animal invasions were the costliest ($4.7 billion), then plant ($1.3 billion) and fungal ($206.7 million) invasions. Reported damage costs (i.e. excluding management costs) were higher in terrestrial ($4.8 billion) than aquatic or semi-aquatic environments ($29.8 million), and primarily impacted agriculture ($4.2 billion). Invaders with earlier introduction years accrued significantly higher total invasion costs. Invasion costs have been increasing rapidly since 1976, and have cost the UK economy $157.1 million (£122.1 million) per annum, on average. Published information on specific economic costs included only 42 of 520 invaders reported in the UK and was generally available only for the most intensively studied taxa, with just four species contributing 90% of species-specific costs. Given that many of the invasive species lacking cost data are actively managed and have well-recognised impacts, this suggests that cost information is incomplete and that totals presented here are vast underestimates owing to knowledge gaps. Financial expenditure on managing invasions is a fraction (37%) of the costs incurred through damage from invaders; greater investments in UK invasive species research and management are, therefore, urgently required.

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Research Article Thu, 29 Jul 2021 18:55:12 +0300
The economic costs of biological invasions around the world https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/69971/ NeoBiota 67: 1-9

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.67.69971

Authors: Rafael Dudeque Zenni, Franz Essl, Emili García-Berthou, Shana M. McDermott

Abstract: Not applicable

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Editorial Thu, 29 Jul 2021 18:55:01 +0300
A multiregional assessment of transnational pathways of introduction https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/60642/ NeoBiota 64: 43-67

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.64.60642

Authors: Chris M. McGrannachan, Shyama Pagad, Melodie A. McGeoch

Abstract: Information on the pathways by which alien taxa are introduced to new regions is vital for prioritising policy and management responses to invasions. However, available datasets are often compiled using disparate methods, making comparison and collation of pathway data difficult. Using a standardised framework for recording and categorising pathway data can help to rectify this problem and provide the information necessary to develop indicators for reporting on alien introductions. We combine the Convention on Biological Diversity’s Pathways Categorisation Scheme (CPC) with data compiled by the Invasive Species Specialist Group (ISSG) to report on multiregional trends on alien introduction pathways over the past 200+ years. We found a significant increase in the documented number of multiregional alien introduction events across all pathways of the CPC’s three hierarchical levels. The ‘escape’ pathway is the most common documented pathway used by alien taxa. Transport stowaways via shipping-related pathways are a rapidly increasing contribution to alien introductions. Most alien introduction events were of unknown pathway origin, highlighting the challenge of information gaps in pathway data and reiterating the need for standardised information-gathering practices. Combining the CPC framework with alien introduction pathways data will standardise pathway information and facilitate the development of global indicators of trends in alien introductions and the pathways they use. These indicators have the potential to inform policy and management strategies for preventing future biological invasions and can be downscaled to national and regional levels that are applicable across taxa and ecosystems.

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Research Article Wed, 20 Jan 2021 13:20:35 +0200
Improving the management of Japanese knotweed s.l.: a response to Jones and colleagues https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/58918/ NeoBiota 63: 147-153

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.63.58918

Authors: François-Marie Martin, Fanny Dommanget, André Evette

Abstract: In a recent paper, Jones et al. (2020a) claimed that we recommended the use of mowing for the “landscape management of invasive knotweeds” in an article we published earlier this year (i.e. Martin et al. 2020), a recommendation with which they strongly disagreed. Since we never made such a recommendation and since we think that, in order to successfully control invasions by Japanese knotweed s.l. taxa (Reynoutria spp.; syn. Fallopia spp.), stakeholders need to acknowledge the general complexity of the management of invasive clonal plants, we would like to (i) clarify the intentions of our initial article and (ii) respectfully discuss some of the statements made by Daniel Jones and his colleagues regarding mowing and knotweed management in general. Although we agree with Jones et al. that some ill-advised management decisions can lead to “cures worse than the disease”, our concern is that the seemingly one-sided argumentation used by these authors may mislead managers into thinking that a unique control option is sufficient to tackle knotweed invasions in every situation or at any given spatial scale, when it is generally admitted that management decisions should account for context-dependency (Wittenberg and Cock 2001; Pyšek and Richardson 2010; Kettenring and Adams 2011).

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Letter To The Editor Tue, 15 Dec 2020 10:56:52 +0200
What are the economic costs of biological invasions? A complex topic requiring international and interdisciplinary expertise https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/55260/ NeoBiota 63: 25-37

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.63.55260

Authors: Christophe Diagne, Jane A. Catford, Franz Essl, Martín A. Nuñez, Franck Courchamp

Abstract: Biological invasions can cause substantial economic losses and expenses for management, as well as harm biodiversity, ecosystem services and human well-being. A comprehensive assessment of the economic costs of invasions is a challenging but essential prerequisite for efficient and sustainable management of invasive alien species. Indeed, these costs were shown to be inherently heterogeneous and complex to determine, and substantial knowledge gaps prevent a full understanding of their nature and distribution. Hence, the development of a still-missing global, standard framework for assessing and deciphering invasion costs is essential to identify effective management approaches and optimise legislation. The recent advent of the InvaCost database – the first comprehensive and harmonised compilation of the economic costs associated with biological invasions worldwide – offers unique opportunities to investigate these complex and diverse costs at different scales. Insights provided by such a dataset are likely to be greatest when a diverse range of experience and expertise are combined. For this purpose, an international and multidisciplinary workshop was held from 12th to 15th November 2019 near Paris (France) to launch several project papers based on the data available in InvaCost. Here, we highlight how the innovative research arising from this workshop offers a major step forward in invasion science. We collectively identified five core research opportunities that InvaCost can help to address: (i) decipher how existing costs of invasions are actually distributed in human society; (ii) bridge taxonomic and geographic gaps identified in the costs currently estimated; (iii) harmonise terminology and reporting of costs through a consensual and interdisciplinary framework; (iv) develop innovative methodological approaches to deal with cost estimations and assessments; and (v) provide cost-based information and tools for applied management of invasions. Moreover, we attribute part of the success of the workshop to its consideration of diversity, equity and societal engagement, which increased research efficiency, creativity and productivity. This workshop provides a strong foundation for substantially advancing our knowledge of invasion impacts, fosters the establishment of a dynamic collaborative network on the topic of invasion economics, and highlights new key features for future scientific meetings.

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Short Communication Tue, 3 Nov 2020 08:58:31 +0200
Is invasion science moving towards agreed standards? The influence of selected frameworks https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/53243/ NeoBiota 62: 569-590

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.62.53243

Authors: John R. U. Wilson, Arunava Datta, Heidi Hirsch, Jan-Hendrik Keet, Tumeka Mbobo, Khensani V. Nkuna, Mlungele M. Nsikani, Petr Pyšek, David M. Richardson, Tsungai A. Zengeya, Sabrina Kumschick

Abstract: The need to understand and manage biological invasions has driven the development of frameworks to circumscribe, classify, and elucidate aspects of the phenomenon. But how influential have these frameworks really been? To test this, we evaluated the impact of a pathway classification framework, a framework focussing on the introduction-naturalisation-invasion continuum, and two papers that outline an impact classification framework. We analysed how these framework papers are cited and by whom, conducted a survey to determine why people have cited the frameworks, and explored the degree to which the frameworks are implemented. The four papers outlining these frameworks are amongst the most-cited in their respective journals, are highly regarded in the field, and are already seen as citation classics (although citations are overwhelmingly within the field of invasion science). The number of citations to the frameworks has increased over time, and, while a significant proportion of these are self-citations (20–40%), this rate is decreasing. The frameworks were cited by studies conducted and authored by researchers from across the world. However, relative to a previous citation analysis of invasion science as a whole, the frameworks are particularly used in Europe and South Africa and less so in North America. There is an increasing number of examples of uptake into invasion policy and management (e.g., the pathway classification framework has been adapted and adopted into EU legislation and CBD targets, and the impact classification framework has been adopted by the IUCN). However, we found that few of the citing papers (6–8%) specifically implemented or interrogated the frameworks; roughly half of all citations might be viewed as frivolous (“citation fluff”); there were several clear cases of erroneous citation; and some survey respondents felt that they have not been rigorously tested yet. Although our analyses suggest that invasion science is moving towards a more systematic and standardised approach to recording invasions and their impacts, it appears that the proposed standards are still not applied consistently. For this to be achieved, we argue that frameworks in invasion science need to be revised or adapted to particular contexts in response to the needs and experiences of users (e.g., so they are relevant to pathologists, plant ecologists, and practitioners), the standards should be easier to apply in practice (e.g., through the development of guidelines for management), and there should be incentives for their usage (e.g., recognition for completing an EICAT assessment).

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Research Article Thu, 15 Oct 2020 20:20:24 +0300
Improving the Environmental Impact Classification for Alien Taxa (EICAT): a summary of revisions to the framework and guidelines https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/52723/ NeoBiota 62: 547-567

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.62.52723

Authors: Lara Volery, Tim M. Blackburn, Sandro Bertolino, Thomas Evans, Piero Genovesi, Sabrina Kumschick, Helen E. Roy, Kevin G. Smith, Sven Bacher

Abstract: The Environmental Impact Classification for Alien Taxa (EICAT) classifies the impacts caused by alien species in their introduced range in standardised terms across taxa and recipient environments. Impacts are classified into one of five levels of severity, from Minimal Concern to Massive, via one of 12 impact mechanisms. Here, we explain revisions based on an IUCN-wide consultation process to the previously-published EICAT framework and guidelines, to clarify why these changes were necessary. These changes mainly concern: the distinction between the two highest levels of impact severity (Major and Massive impacts), the scenarios of the five levels of severity for the hybridisation and disease transmission mechanisms, the broadening of existing impact mechanisms to capture overlooked mechanisms, the Current (Maximum) Impact, and the way uncertainty of individual impact assessments is evaluated. Our aim in explaining this revision process is to ensure consistency of EICAT assessments, by improving the understanding of the framework.

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Research Article Thu, 15 Oct 2020 20:20:23 +0300
The importance of assessing positive and beneficial impacts of alien species https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/52793/ NeoBiota 62: 525-545

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.62.52793

Authors: Giovanni Vimercati, Sabrina Kumschick, Anna F. Probert, Lara Volery, Sven Bacher

Abstract: Extensive literature is available on the diversity and magnitude of impacts that alien species cause on recipient systems. Alien species may decrease or increase attributes of ecosystems (e.g. total biomass or species diversity), thus causing negative and positive environmental impacts. Alien species may also negatively or positively impact attributes linked to local human communities (e.g. the number of people involved in a given activity). Ethical and societal values contribute to define these environmental and socio-economic impacts as deleterious or beneficial. Whilst most of the literature focuses on the deleterious effects of alien taxa, some recognise their beneficial impacts on ecosystems and human activities. Impact assessment frameworks show a similar tendency to evaluate mainly deleterious impacts: only relatively few, and not widely applied, frameworks incorporate the beneficial impacts of alien species. Here, we provide a summary of the frameworks assessing beneficial impacts and briefly discuss why they might have been less frequently cited and applied than frameworks assessing exclusively deleterious impacts. Then, we review arguments that invoke a greater consideration of positive and beneficial impacts caused by alien species across the invasion science literature. We collate and describe arguments from a set of 47 papers, grouping them in two categories (value-free and value-laden), which span from a theoretical, basic science perspective to an applied science perspective. We also provide example cases associated with each argument. We advocate that the development of transparent and evidence-based frameworks assessing positive and beneficial impacts might advance our scientific understanding of impact dynamics and better inform management and prioritisation decisions. We also advise that this development should be achieved by recognising the underlying ethical and societal values of the frameworks and their intrinsic limitations. The evaluation of positive and beneficial impacts through impact assessment frameworks should not be seen as an attempt to outweigh or to discount deleterious impacts of alien taxa but rather as an opportunity to provide additional information for scientists, managers and policymakers.

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Research Article Thu, 15 Oct 2020 20:20:22 +0300
Comparing the IUCN’s EICAT and Red List to improve assessments of the impact of biological invasions https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/52623/ NeoBiota 62: 509-523

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.62.52623

Authors: Dewidine Van der Colff, Sabrina Kumschick, Wendy Foden, John R. U. Wilson

Abstract: The IUCN recommends the use of two distinct schemes to assess the impacts of biological invasions on biodiversity at the species level. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species (Red List) categorises native species based on their risk of extinction. Such assessments evaluate the extent to which different pressures, including alien species, threaten native species. The much newer IUCN Environmental Impact Classification for Alien Taxa (EICAT) categorises alien species on the degree to which they have impacted native species. Conceptually, the schemes are related. One would expect that: 1) if a native species is assessed as threatened under the Red List due to the impacts of alien species, then at least one alien species involved should be classified as harmful under EICAT; and 2) if an alien species is assessed as harmful under EICAT, then at least one native species impacted should be assessed as threatened by alien species under the Red List. Here we test this by comparing the impacts of alien gastropods, assessed using EICAT, to the impact on native species as assessed based on the Red List. We found a weak positive correlation, but it is clear there is not a simple one-to-one relationship. We hypothesise that the relationship between EICAT and the Red List statuses will follow one of three forms: i) the EICAT status of an alien species is closely correlated to the Red List status of the impacted native species; ii) the alien species is classed as ‘harmful’ under EICAT, but it does not threaten the native species with extinction as per the Red List (for example, the impacted native species is still widespread or abundant despite significant negative impacts from the alien species); or iii) the native species is classified as threatened under the Red List regardless of the impacts of the alien species (threatened species are impacted by other pressures with alien species potentially a passenger and not a driver of change). We conclude that the two schemes are complementary rather than equivalent, and provide some recommendations for how categorisations and data can be used in concert.

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Research Article Thu, 15 Oct 2020 20:20:21 +0300
Reciprocal human-natural system feedback loops within the invasion process https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/52664/ NeoBiota 62: 489-508

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.62.52664

Authors: James S. Sinclair, Jeffrey A. Brown, Julie L. Lockwood

Abstract: Biological invasions are inextricably linked to how people collect, move, interact with and perceive non-native species. However, invasion frameworks generally do not consider reciprocal interactions between non-native species and people. Non-native species can shape human actions via beneficial or detrimental ecological and socioeconomic effects and people, in turn, shape invasions through their movements, behaviour and how they respond to the collection, transport, introduction and spread of non-natives. The feedbacks that stem from this ‘coupled human and natural system’ (CHANS) could therefore play a key role in mitigating (i.e. negative feedback loops) or exacerbating (i.e. positive feedback loops) ongoing and future invasions. We posit that the invasion process could be subdivided into three CHANS that span from the source region from which non-natives originate to the recipient region in which they establish and spread. We also provide specific examples of feedback loops that occur within each CHANS that have either reduced or facilitated new introductions and spread of established non-native species. In so doing, we add to exisiting invasion frameworks to generate new hypotheses about human-based drivers of biological invasions and further efforts to determine how ecological outcomes feed back into human actions.

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Review Article Thu, 15 Oct 2020 20:10:20 +0300
Double trouble: the implications of climate change for biological invasions https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/55729/ NeoBiota 62: 463-487

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.62.55729

Authors: Tamara B. Robinson, Nicole Martin, Tainã G. Loureiro, Phikolomzi Matikinca, Mark P. Robertson

Abstract: The implications of climate change for biological invasions are multifaceted and vary along the invasion process. Changes in vectors and pathways are likely to manifest in changes in transport routes and destinations, together with altered transit times and traffic volume. Ultimately, changes in the nature of why, how, and where biota are transported and introduced will pose biosecurity challenges. These challenges will require increased human and institutional capacity, as well as proactive responses such as improved early detection, adaptation of present protocols and innovative legal instruments. Invasion success and spread are expected to be moderated by the physiological response of alien and native biota to environmental changes and the ensuing changes in biotic interactions. These in turn will likely affect management actions aimed at eradicating, containing, and mitigating invasions, necessitating an adaptive approach to management that is sensitive to potentially unanticipated outcomes.

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Review Article Thu, 15 Oct 2020 20:10:19 +0300
MAcroecological Framework for Invasive Aliens (MAFIA): disentangling large-scale context dependence in biological invasions https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/52787/ NeoBiota 62: 407-461

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.62.52787

Authors: Petr Pyšek, Sven Bacher, Ingolf Kühn, Ana Novoa, Jane A. Catford, Philip E. Hulme, Jan Pergl, David M. Richardson, John R. U. Wilson, Tim M. Blackburn

Abstract: Macroecology is the study of patterns, and the processes that determine those patterns, in the distribution and abundance of organisms at large scales, whether they be spatial (from hundreds of kilometres to global), temporal (from decades to centuries), and organismal (numbers of species or higher taxa). In the context of invasion ecology, macroecological studies include, for example, analyses of the richness, diversity, distribution, and abundance of alien species in regional floras and faunas, spatio-temporal dynamics of alien species across regions, and cross-taxonomic analyses of species traits among comparable native and alien species pools. However, macroecological studies aiming to explain and predict plant and animal naturalisations and invasions, and the resulting impacts, have, to date, rarely considered the joint effects of species traits, environment, and socioeconomic characteristics. To address this, we present the MAcroecological Framework for Invasive Aliens (MAFIA). The MAFIA explains the invasion phenomenon using three interacting classes of factors – alien species traits, location characteristics, and factors related to introduction events – and explicitly maps these interactions onto the invasion sequence from transport to naturalisation to invasion. The framework therefore helps both to identify how anthropogenic effects interact with species traits and environmental characteristics to determine observed patterns in alien distribution, abundance, and richness; and to clarify why neglecting anthropogenic effects can generate spurious conclusions. Event-related factors include propagule pressure, colonisation pressure, and residence time that are important for mediating the outcome of invasion processes. However, because of context dependence, they can bias analyses, for example those that seek to elucidate the role of alien species traits. In the same vein, failure to recognise and explicitly incorporate interactions among the main factors impedes our understanding of which macroecological invasion patterns are shaped by the environment, and of the importance of interactions between the species and their environment. The MAFIA is based largely on insights from studies of plants and birds, but we believe it can be applied to all taxa, and hope that it will stimulate comparative research on other groups and environments. By making the biases in macroecological analyses of biological invasions explicit, the MAFIA offers an opportunity to guide assessments of the context dependence of invasions at broad geographical scales.

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Research Article Thu, 15 Oct 2020 20:00:18 +0300
Understanding uncertainty in the Impact Classification for Alien Taxa (ICAT) assessments https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/52010/ NeoBiota 62: 387-405

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.62.52010

Authors: Anna F. Probert, Lara Volery, Sabrina Kumschick, Giovanni Vimercati, Sven Bacher

Abstract: The Environmental Impact Classification for Alien Taxa (EICAT) and the Socio-Economic Impact Classification of Alien Taxa (SEICAT) have been proposed to provide unified methods for classifying alien species according to their magnitude of impacts. EICAT and SEICAT (herein “ICAT” when refered together) were designed to facilitate the comparison between taxa and invasion contexts by using a standardised, semi-quantitative scoring scheme. The ICAT scores are assigned after conducting a literature review to evaluate all impact observations against the protocols’ criteria. EICAT classifies impacts on the native biota of the recipient environments, whereas SEICAT classifies impacts on human activities. A key component of the process is to assign a level of confidence (high, medium or low) to account for uncertainty. Assessors assign confidence scores to each impact record depending on how confident they are that the assigned impact magnitude reflects the true situation. All possible sources of epistemic uncertainty are expected to be captured by one overall confidence score, neglecting linguistic uncertainties that assessors should be aware of. The current way of handling uncertainty is prone to subjectivity and therefore might lead to inconsistencies amongst assessors. This paper identifies the major sources of uncertainty for impacts classified under the ICAT frameworks, where they emerge in the assessment process and how they are likely to be contributing to biases and inconsistency in assessments. In addition, as the current procedures only capture uncertainty at the individual impact report, interspecific comparisons may be limited by various factors, including data availability. Therefore, ranking species, based on impact magnitude under the present systems, does not account for such uncertainty. We identify three types of biases occurring beyond the individual impact report level (and not captured by the confidence score): biases in the existing data, data collection and data assessment. These biases should be recognised when comparing alien species based on their impacts. Clarifying uncertainty concepts relevant to the ICAT frameworks will lead to more consistent impact assessments and more robust intra- and inter-specific comparisons of impact magnitudes.

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Research Article Thu, 15 Oct 2020 20:00:17 +0300
Harmonising the fields of invasion science and forest pathology https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/52991/ NeoBiota 62: 301-332

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.62.52991

Authors: Trudy Paap, Michael J. Wingfield, Treena I. Burgess, Joseph M. Hulbert, Alberto Santini

Abstract: Invasive alien species are widely recognised as significant drivers of global environmental change, with far reaching ecological and socio-economic impacts. The trend of continuous increases in first records, with no apparent sign of saturation, is consistent across all taxonomic groups. However, taxonomic biases exist in the extent to which invasion processes have been studied. Invasive forest pathogens have caused, and they continue to result in dramatic damage to natural forests and woody ecosystems, yet their impacts are substantially underrepresented in the invasion science literature. Conversely, most studies of forest pathogens have been undertaken in the absence of a connection to the frameworks developed and used to study biological invasions. We believe this is, in part, a consequence of the mechanistic approach of the discipline of forest pathology; one that has been inherited from the broader discipline of plant pathology. Rather than investigating the origins of, and the processes driving the arrival of invasive microorganisms, the focus of pathologists is generally to investigate specific interactions between hosts and pathogens, with an emphasis on controlling the resulting disease problems. In contrast, central to the field of invasion science, which finds its roots in ecology, is the development and testing of general concepts and frameworks. The lack of knowledge of microbial biodiversity and ecology, speciation and geographic origin present challenges in understanding invasive forest pathogens under existing frameworks, and there is a need to address this shortfall. Advances in molecular technologies such as gene and genome sequencing and metagenomics studies have increased the “visibility” of microorganisms. We consider whether these technologies are being adequately applied to address the gaps between forest pathology and invasion science. We also interrogate the extent to which the two fields stand to gain by becoming more closely linked.

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Review Article Thu, 15 Oct 2020 20:00:14 +0300
The cost and complexity of assessing impact https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/52261/ NeoBiota 62: 279-299

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.62.52261

Authors: John Measey, Carla Wagener, Nitya Prakash Mohanty, James Baxter-Gilbert, Elizabeth F. Pienaar

Abstract: The environmental and socio-economic impacts of invasive species have long been recognised to be unequal, with some species being benign while others are disastrous. Until recently there was no recognised standard impact scoring framework with which to compare impacts of species from very different taxa. The advent of the Environmental Impact Classification for Alien Taxa (EICAT) and Socio‐Economic Impact Classification of Alien Taxa (SEICAT) schemes allows for the possibility of assessing impact through a standard approach. However, both these schemes are still in their infancy and the associated costs of the research that informs them is unknown. We aimed to determine the study costs and complexity associated with assessing invasive species’ socio-economic and environmental impacts. We used amphibians as a model group to investigate papers from which EICAT and SEICAT scores could be drawn up to 2019. Our analysis shows that studies that resulted in higher impact scores were more costly. Furthermore, the costs of studies were best predicted by their complexity and the time taken to complete them. If impact scores from EICAT and SEICAT are allowed to inform policy, then we need to carefully consider whether species with low scores represent true impact, or require more research investment and time. Policy makers needing accurate assessments will need to finance larger, more complex, and rigorous studies. Assessing impacts in low and middle income countries may need investment using international research collaborations and capacity building with scientists from high income areas.

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Research Article Thu, 15 Oct 2020 20:00:13 +0300
Scale invariance in the spatial-dynamics of biological invasions https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/53213/ NeoBiota 62: 269-278

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.62.53213

Authors: Andrew M. Liebhold, Timothy H. Keitt, Nikunj Goel, Cleo Bertelsmeier

Abstract: Despite the enormous negative consequences of biological invasions, we have a limited understanding of how spatial demography during invasions creates population patterns observed at different spatial scales. Early stages of invasions, arrival and establishment, are considered distinct from the later stage of spread, but the processes of population growth and dispersal underlie all invasion phases. Here, we argue that the spread of invading species, to a first approximation, exhibits scale invariant spatial-dynamic patterns that transcend multiple spatial scales. Dispersal from a source population creates smaller satellite colonies, which in turn act as sources for secondary invasions; the scale invariant pattern of coalescing colonies can be seen at multiple scales. This self-similar pattern is referred to as “stratified diffusion” at landscape scales and the “bridgehead effect” at the global scale. The extent to which invasions exhibit such scale-invariant spatial dynamics may be limited by the form of the organisms’ dispersal kernel and by the connectivity of the habitat. Recognition of this self-similar pattern suggests that certain concepts for understanding and managing invasions might be widely transferable across spatial scales.

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Short Communication Thu, 15 Oct 2020 20:00:12 +0300
A framework to support alien species regulation: the Risk Analysis for Alien Taxa (RAAT) https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/51031/ NeoBiota 62: 213-239

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.62.51031

Authors: Sabrina Kumschick, John R. U. Wilson, Llewellyn C. Foxcroft

Abstract: Human livelihoods and well-being in almost all regions of the world depend on taxa which are alien. Such taxa also, however, threaten human health, sustainable development, and biodiversity. Since it is not feasible or desirable to control all alien taxa, decision-makers increasingly rely on risk analyses to formalise the best available evidence of the threats posed and whether and how they can be managed. There are a variety of schemes available that consider the risks of alien taxa, but we argue a new framework is needed: 1) given major recent developments in international frameworks dealing with biological invasions (including the scoring of impacts); 2) so that decisions can be made consistently across taxa, regions and realms; 3) to explicitly set out uncertainties; and 4) to provide decision-makers with information both on the risks posed and on what can be done to mitigate or prevent impacts. Any such scheme must also be flexible enough to deal with constraints in capacity and information. Here we present a framework to address these points – the Risk Analysis for Alien Taxa (RAAT). It outlines a series of questions related to an alien taxon’s likelihood of invasion, realised and potential impacts, and options for management. The framework provides a structure for collating relevant data from the published literature to support a robust, transparent process to list alien taxa under legislative and regulatory requirements, with the aim that it can be completed by a trained science graduate within a few days. The framework also provides a defensible process for developing recommendations for the management of assessed taxa. We trialled the framework in South Africa and outline the process followed and some of the taxa assessed to date.

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Methods Thu, 15 Oct 2020 20:00:10 +0300
Appropriate uses of EICAT protocol, data and classifications https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/51574/ NeoBiota 62: 193-212

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.62.51574

Authors: Sabrina Kumschick, Sven Bacher, Sandro Bertolino, Tim M. Blackburn, Thomas Evans, Helen E. Roy, Kevin Smith

Abstract: The Environmental Impact Classification for Alien Taxa (EICAT) can be used to classify alien taxa according to the magnitude and type of their environmental impacts. The EICAT protocol, classifications of alien taxa using the protocol (EICAT classification) and the data underpinning classifications (EICAT data) are increasingly used by scientists and practitioners such as governments, NGOs and civil society for a variety of purposes. However, the properties of the EICAT protocol and the data it generates are not suitable for certain uses. Therefore, we present guidelines designed to clarify and facilitate the appropriate use of EICAT to tackle a broad range of conservation issues related to biological invasions, as well as to guide research and communication more generally. Here we address common misconceptions and give a brief overview of some key issues that all EICAT users need to be aware of to take maximal advantage of this resource. Furthermore, we give examples of the wide variety of ways in which the EICAT protocol, classifications and data can be and have been utilised and outline common errors and pitfalls to avoid.

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Discussion Paper Thu, 15 Oct 2020 20:00:09 +0300
The Epidemiological Framework for Biological Invasions (EFBI): an interdisciplinary foundation for the assessment of biosecurity threats https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/52463/ NeoBiota 62: 161-192

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.62.52463

Authors: Philip E. Hulme, Richard Baker, Robert Freckleton, Rosemary S. Hails, Matt Hartley, John Harwood, Glenn Marion, Graham C. Smith, Mark Williamson

Abstract: Emerging microparasite (e.g. viruses, bacteria, protozoa and fungi) epidemics and the introduction of non-native pests and weeds are major biosecurity threats worldwide. The likelihood of these threats is often estimated from probabilities of their entry, establishment, spread and ease of prevention. If ecosystems are considered equivalent to hosts, then compartment disease models should provide a useful framework for understanding the processes that underpin non-native species invasions. To enable greater cross-fertilisation between these two disciplines, the Epidemiological Framework for Biological Invasions (EFBI) is developed that classifies ecosystems in relation to their invasion status: Susceptible, Exposed, Infectious and Resistant. These states are linked by transitions relating to transmission, latency and recovery. This viewpoint differs markedly from the species-centric approaches often applied to non-native species. It allows generalisations from epidemiology, such as the force of infection, the basic reproductive ratio R0, super-spreaders, herd immunity, cordon sanitaire and ring vaccination, to be discussed in the novel context of non-native species and helps identify important gaps in the study of biological invasions. The EFBI approach highlights several limitations inherent in current approaches to the study of biological invasions including: (i) the variance in non-native abundance across ecosystems is rarely reported; (ii) field data rarely (if ever) distinguish source from sink ecosystems; (iii) estimates of the susceptibility of ecosystems to invasion seldom account for differences in exposure to non-native species; and (iv) assessments of ecosystem susceptibility often confuse the processes that underpin patterns of spread within -and between- ecosystems. Using the invasion of lakes as a model, the EFBI approach is shown to present a new biosecurity perspective that takes account of ecosystem status and complements demographic models to deliver clearer insights into the dynamics of biological invasions at the landscape scale. It will help to identify whether management of the susceptibility of ecosystems, of the number of vectors, or of the diversity of pathways (for movement between ecosystems) is the best way of limiting or reversing the population growth of a non-native species. The framework can be adapted to incorporate increasing levels of complexity and realism and to provide insights into how to monitor, map and manage biological invasions more effectively.

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Research Article Thu, 15 Oct 2020 20:00:08 +0300
Classifying the introduction pathways of alien species: are we moving in the right direction? https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/53543/ NeoBiota 62: 143-159

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.62.53543

Authors: Katelyn T. Faulkner, Philip E. Hulme, Shyama Pagad, John R. U. Wilson, Mark P. Robertson

Abstract: Alien species are introduced to new regions in many different ways and for different purposes. A number of frameworks have been developed to group such pathways of introduction into discrete categories in order to improve our understanding of biological invasions, provide information for interventions that aim to prevent introductions, enable reporting to national and international organisations and facilitate the prediction of threats. The introduction pathway classification framework proposed by the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) as a global standard is comprised of six main categories and 44 sub-categories. However, issues have arisen with its implementation. In this position paper, we outline five desirable properties of an introduction pathway classification framework – it should be compatible (i.e. the level of detail of the categories is similar to that of the available data), actionable (i.e. categories link to specific interventions), general (i.e. categories are applicable across the contexts that are of interest (e.g. taxa, habitats and regions)), equivalent (i.e. categories are equivalent in their level of detail) and distinct (i.e. categories are discrete and easily distinguished) – termed the CAGED properties. The six main categories of the CBD framework have all of the CAGED properties, but the detailed sub-categories have few. Therefore, while the framework has been proposed by the CBD as a global standard and efforts have been made to put it into practice, we argue that there is room for improvement. We conclude by presenting scenarios for how the issues identified could be addressed, noting that a hybrid model might be most appropriate.

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Discussion Paper Thu, 15 Oct 2020 20:00:07 +0300
Application of the Socio-Economic Impact Classification for Alien Taxa (SEICAT) to a global assessment of alien bird impacts https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/51150/ NeoBiota 62: 123-142

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.62.51150

Authors: Thomas Evans, Tim M. Blackburn, Jonathan M. Jeschke, Anna F. Probert, Sven Bacher

Abstract: We use a recently proposed framework, the Socio-Economic Impact Classification for Alien Taxa (SEICAT) to undertake the first global assessment of the impacts of alien birds on human well-being. A review of the published literature and online resources was undertaken to collate information on the reported socio-economic impacts of 415 bird species with self-sustaining alien populations worldwide. These data were then categorised following the SEICAT guidelines. Impact data were found for 57 (14%) of the 415 alien bird species in this study. All but two of these species were found to have minor impacts on human well-being. The most significant threat to human well-being posed by alien birds may be associated with their impacts on aviation safety. About two-thirds of the impact data found described agricultural impacts. No data were found describing disease transmission impacts on humans. We lack data for developing regions of the world: this is of concern as alien species can threaten livelihoods in developing countries, particularly by affecting agricultural production and hence food security. Most assessments were allocated a ‘Low’ confidence score. This may be because SEICAT is a new framework, requiring data on the way in which alien species affect human well-being, as measured by changes to human activities: even where we do have data describing an alien bird impact, information on how profoundly this impact affects people’s activities is currently rarely available.

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Research Article Thu, 15 Oct 2020 20:00:06 +0300
Frameworks used in invasion science: progress and prospects https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/58738/ NeoBiota 62: 1-30

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.62.58738

Authors: John R. U. Wilson, Sven Bacher, Curtis C. Daehler, Quentin J. Groom, Sabrina Kumschick, Julie L. Lockwood, Tamara B. Robinson, Tsungai A. Zengeya, David M. Richardson

Abstract: Our understanding and management of biological invasions relies on our ability to classify and conceptualise the phenomenon. This need has stimulated the development of a plethora of frameworks, ranging in nature from conceptual to applied. However, most of these frameworks have not been widely tested and their general applicability is unknown. In order to critically evaluate frameworks in invasion science, we held a workshop on ‘Frameworks used in Invasion Science’ hosted by the DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Invasion Biology in Stellenbosch, South Africa, in November 2019, which led to this special issue. For the purpose of the workshop we defined a framework as “a way of organising things that can be easily communicated to allow for shared understanding or that can be implemented to allow for generalisations useful for research, policy or management”. Further, we developed the Stellenbosch Challenge for Invasion Science: “Can invasion science develop and improve frameworks that are useful for research, policy or management, and that are clear as to the contexts in which the frameworks do and do not apply?”. Particular considerations identified among meeting participants included the need to identify the limitations of a framework, specify how frameworks link to each other and broader issues, and to improve how frameworks can facilitate communication. We believe that the 24 papers in this special issue do much to meet this challenge. The papers apply existing frameworks to new data and contexts, review how the frameworks have been adopted and used, develop useable protocols and guidelines for applying frameworks to different contexts, refine the frameworks in light of experience, integrate frameworks for new purposes, identify gaps, and develop new frameworks to address issues that are currently not adequately dealt with. Frameworks in invasion science must continue to be developed, tested as broadly as possible, revised, and retired as contexts and needs change. However, frameworks dealing with pathways of introduction, progress along the introduction-naturalisation-invasion continuum, and the assessment of impacts are being increasingly formalised and set as standards. This, we argue, is an important step as invasion science starts to mature as a discipline.

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Editorial Thu, 15 Oct 2020 20:00:01 +0300
Global guidelines for the sustainable use of non-native trees to prevent tree invasions and mitigate their negative impacts https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/58380/ NeoBiota 61: 65-116

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.61.58380

Authors: Giuseppe Brundu, Aníbal Pauchard, Petr Pyšek, Jan Pergl, Anja M. Bindewald, Antonio Brunori, Susan Canavan, Thomas Campagnaro, Laura Celesti-Grapow, Michele de Sá Dechoum, Jean-Marc Dufour-Dror, Franz Essl, S. Luke Flory, Piero Genovesi, Francesco Guarino, Liu Guangzhe, Philip E. Hulme, Heinke Jäger, Christopher J. Kettle, Frank Krumm, Barbara Langdon, Katharina Lapin, Vanessa Lozano, Johannes J. Le Roux, Ana Novoa, Martín A. Nuñez, Annabel J. Porté, Joaquim S. Silva, Urs Schaffner, Tommaso Sitzia, Rob Tanner, Ntakadzeni Tshidada, Michaela Vítková, Marjana Westergren, John R. U. Wilson, David M. Richardson

Abstract: Sustainably managed non-native trees deliver economic and societal benefits with limited risk of spread to adjoining areas. However, some plantations have launched invasions that cause substantial damage to biodiversity and ecosystem services, while others pose substantial threats of causing such impacts. The challenge is to maximise the benefits of non-native trees, while minimising negative impacts and preserving future benefits and options. A workshop was held in 2019 to develop global guidelines for the sustainable use of non-native trees, using the Council of Europe – Bern Convention Code of Conduct on Invasive Alien Trees as a starting point. The global guidelines consist of eight recommendations: 1) Use native trees, or non-invasive non-native trees, in preference to invasive non-native trees; 2) Be aware of and comply with international, national, and regional regulations concerning non-native trees; 3) Be aware of the risk of invasion and consider global change trends; 4) Design and adopt tailored practices for plantation site selection and silvicultural management; 5) Promote and implement early detection and rapid response programmes; 6) Design and adopt tailored practices for invasive non-native tree control, habitat restoration, and for dealing with highly modified ecosystems; 7) Engage with stakeholders on the risks posed by invasive non-native trees, the impacts caused, and the options for management; and 8) Develop and support global networks, collaborative research, and information sharing on native and non-native trees. The global guidelines are a first step towards building global consensus on the precautions that should be taken when introducing and planting non-native trees. They are voluntary and are intended to complement statutory requirements under international and national legislation. The application of the global guidelines and the achievement of their goals will help to conserve forest biodiversity, ensure sustainable forestry, and contribute to the achievement of several Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations linked with forest biodiversity.

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Review Article Thu, 8 Oct 2020 12:30:20 +0300
Non-native plants exert strong but under-studied influence on fire dynamics https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/51141/ NeoBiota 61: 47-64

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.61.51141

Authors: Clare E. Aslan, Brett G. Dickson

Abstract: Altered fire regimes are among the most destructive consequences of anthropogenic environmental change. Fires have increased in frequency in some regions, and invasion by fire-adapted non-native species has been identified as a major driver of this change, which results in a feedback cycle promoting further spread by the non-native species and diminishing occurrence of natives. We notice, however, that non-native species are often invoked in passing as a primary cause of changing fire dynamics, but that data supporting this claim are rarely presented. We therefore performed a meta-analysis of published literature to determine whether a significant relationship exists between non-native species presence and increased fire effects and risk, examined via various fire metrics. Our analysis detected a strongly significant difference between fire metrics associated with non-native and native species, with non-native species linked to enhanced fire effects and risk. However, only 30 papers discussing this linkage provided data to support it, and those quantitative studies examined only eight regions, five biome types, and a total of 22 unique non-native taxa. It is clear that we are only beginning to understand the relationship between non-native species and fire and that results drawn from an extremely limited set of contexts have been broadly applied in the literature. It is important for ecologists to continue to investigate drivers of changing fire regimes as factors such as climate change and land use change alter native and non-native fuels alike.

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Research Article Thu, 8 Oct 2020 08:37:37 +0300
Laundry washing increases dispersal efficiency of cloth-dispersed propagules https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/53730/ NeoBiota 61: 1-16

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.61.53730

Authors: Orsolya Valkó, Katalin Lukács, Balázs Deák, Réka Kiss, Tamás Miglécz, Katalin Tóth, Ágnes Tóth, Laura Godó, Szilvia Radócz, Judit Sonkoly, András Kelemen, Bela Tóthmérész

Abstract: Due to increased human mobility, cloth-dispersed propagules can be transported over long distances, which would not have been bridged otherwise. We studied a potentially important component of human-mediated seed dispersal by assessing the effects of laundry washing on the dispersed propagules. We studied the germination of 18 species, which have morphological adaptations for epizoochory and are commonly dispersed by people. We tested six treatments (washing with water, soap nut or detergent, at 30 °C or 60 °C) compared to an untreated control. Washing intensity was the most significant factor affecting germination. Washing at 30 °C was neutral for 14 species, suppressed one species and supported three species. Washing at 60 °C decreased seedling numbers of half of the studied species. The intensive washing treatments at 60 °C significantly decreased the synchrony of germination. We showed that people are not purely transporting propagules from one location to another, but via the laundry cycle, we can also influence the fate of the transported propagules by affecting germination potential, seedling fitness and germination dynamics. These results have new implications for understanding the early stages of biological invasions and call for improved biosecurity measures in nature reserves subjected to a growing pressure of tourism.

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Research Article Fri, 2 Oct 2020 13:23:04 +0300
CONTAIN: Optimising the long-term management of invasive alien species using adaptive management https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/52022/ NeoBiota 59: 119-138

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.59.52022

Authors: Xavier Lambin, David Burslem, Paul Caplat, Thomas Cornulier, Gabriella Damasceno, Laura Fasola, Alessandra Fidelis, Pablo García-Díaz, Bárbara Langdon, Eirini Linardaki, Lia Montti, Jaime Moyano, Martín A. Nuñez, Stephen C.F. Palmer, Aníbal Pauchard, Euan Phimister, José Cristóbal Pizarro, Priscila Powell, Eduardo Raffo, Ignacio A. Rodriguez-Jorquera, Ignacio Roesler, Jorge A. Tomasevic, Justin M.J. Travis, Claudio Verdugo

Abstract: Invasive Alien Species (IAS) threaten biodiversity, ecosystem functions and services, modify landscapes and impose costs to national economies. Management efforts are underway globally to reduce these impacts, but little attention has been paid to optimising the use of the scarce available resources when IAS are impossible to eradicate, and therefore population reduction and containment of their advance are the only feasible solutions. CONTAIN, a three-year multinational project involving partners from Argentina, Brazil, Chile and the UK, started in 2019. It develops and tests, via case study examples, a decision-making toolbox for managing different problematic IAS over large spatial extents. Given that vast areas are invaded, spatial prioritisation of management is necessary, often based on sparse data. In turn, these characteristics imply the need to make the best decisions possible under likely heavy uncertainty. Our decision-support toolbox will integrate the following components: (i) the relevant environmental, social, cultural, and economic impacts, including their spatial distribution; (ii) the spatio-temporal dynamics of the target IAS (focusing on dispersal and population recovery); (iii) the relationship between the abundance of the IAS and its impacts; (iv) economic methods to estimate both benefits and costs to inform the spatial prioritisation of cost-effective interventions. To ensure that our approach is relevant for different contexts in Latin America, we are working with model species having contrasting modes of dispersal, which have large environmental and/or economic impacts, and for which data already exist (invasive pines, privet, wasps, and American mink). We will also model plausible scenarios for data-poor pine and grass species, which impact local people in Argentina, Brazil and Chile. We seek the most effective strategic management actions supported by empirical data on the species’ population dynamics and dispersal that underpin reinvasion, and on intervention costs in a spatial context. Our toolbox serves to identify key uncertainties driving the systems, and especially to highlight gaps where new data would most effectively reduce uncertainty on the best course of action. The problems we are tackling are complex, and we are embedding them in a process of co-operative adaptive management, so that both researchers and managers continually improve their effectiveness by confronting different models to data. Our project is also building research capacity in Latin America by sharing knowledge/information between countries and disciplines (i.e., biological, social and economic), by training early-career researchers through research visits, through our continuous collaboration with other researchers and by training and engaging stakeholders via workshops. Finally, all these activities will establish an international network of researchers, managers and decision-makers. We expect that our lessons learned will be of use in other regions of the world where complex and inherently context-specific realities shape how societies deal with IAS.

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Project Description Wed, 5 Aug 2020 08:24:17 +0300
A workflow for standardising and integrating alien species distribution data https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/53578/ NeoBiota 59: 39-59

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.59.53578

Authors: Hanno Seebens, David A. Clarke, Quentin Groom, John R. U. Wilson, Emili García-Berthou, Ingolf Kühn, Mariona Roigé, Shyama Pagad, Franz Essl, Joana Vicente, Marten Winter, Melodie McGeoch

Abstract: Biodiversity data are being collected at unprecedented rates. Such data often have significant value for purposes beyond the initial reason for which they were collected, particularly when they are combined and collated with other data sources. In the field of invasion ecology, however, integrating data represents a major challenge due to the notorious lack of standardisation of terminologies and categorisations, and the application of deviating concepts of biological invasions. Here, we introduce the SInAS workflow, short for Standardising and Integrating Alien Species data. The SInAS workflow standardises terminologies following Darwin Core, location names using a proposed translation table, taxon names based on the GBIF backbone taxonomy, and dates of first records based on a set of predefined rules. The output of the SInAS workflow provides various entry points that can be used both to improve coherence among the databases and to check and correct the original data. The workflow is flexible and can be easily adapted and extended to the needs of different users. We illustrate the workflow using a case-study integrating five widely used global databases of information on biological invasions. The comparison of the standardised databases revealed a surprisingly low degree of overlap, which indicates that the amount of data may currently not be fully exploited in the original databases. We highly recommend the use and development of publicly available workflows to ensure that the integration of databases is reproducible and transparent. Workflows, such as SInAS, ultimately increase trust in data, study results, and conclusions.

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Software Description Tue, 28 Jul 2020 15:41:17 +0300
Pathologists and entomologists must join forces against forest pest and pathogen invasions https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/54389/ NeoBiota 58: 107-127

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.58.54389

Authors: Hervé Jactel, Marie-Laure Desprez-Loustau, Andrea Battisti, Eckehard Brockerhoff, Alberto Santini, Jan Stenlid, Christer Björkman, Manuela Branco, Katharina Dehnen-Schmutz, Jacob C. Douma, Jassy Drakulic, Fryni Drizou, René Eschen, José Carlos Franco, Martin M. Gossner, Samantha Green, Marc Kenis, Maartje J. Klapwijk, Andrew M. Liebhold, Christophe Orazio, Simone Prospero, Christelle Robinet, Martin Schroeder, Bernard Slippers, Pavel Stoev, Jianghua Sun, Robbert van den Dool, Michael J. Wingfield, Myron P. Zalucki

Abstract: The world’s forests have never been more threatened by invasions of exotic pests and pathogens, whose causes and impacts are reinforced by global change. However, forest entomologists and pathologists have, for too long, worked independently, used different concepts and proposed specific management methods without recognising parallels and synergies between their respective fields. Instead, we advocate increased collaboration between these two scientific communities to improve the long-term health of forests. Our arguments are that the pathways of entry of exotic pests and pathogens are often the same and that insects and fungi often coexist in the same affected trees. Innovative methods for preventing invasions, early detection and identification of non-native species, modelling of their impact and spread and prevention of damage by increasing the resistance of ecosystems can be shared for the management of both pests and diseases. We, therefore, make recommendations to foster this convergence, proposing in particular the development of interdisciplinary research programmes, the development of generic tools or methods for pest and pathogen management and capacity building for the education and training of students, managers, decision-makers and citizens concerned with forest health.

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Discussion Paper Fri, 10 Jul 2020 10:28:08 +0300
Invasive alien species add to the uncertain future of protected areas https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/52188/ NeoBiota 57: 1-5

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.57.52188

Authors: Desika Moodley, Llewellyn C. Foxcroft, Ana Novoa, Klára Pyšková, Jan Pergl, Petr Pysek

Abstract: Establishing and managing protected areas (national parks, nature reserves and other sites of conservation value) represent the most common approach to conserving species and ecosystems, but these areas are vulnerable to global environmental change. Recently, Golden Kroner et al. (2019) suggested protected area downgrading, downsizing, and degazettement (PADDD) as one of the main threats to biodiversity conservation. However, there are several other elements, of similar concern, that threaten conservation efforts in protected areas, such as climate change and pollution. Here, in a commentary to the Golden Kroner et al. (2019) paper, we address an additional important element affecting protected area dynamics and robustness that was overlooked by these authors – invasions by alien species. We argue that invasive alien species (IAS) contribute directly to the pressures of biodiversity loss by competing with native species and modifying the characteristics of the invaded ecosystems, and virtually no protected areas are free from these effects. Therefore, excluding IAS from legal instruments and policy frameworks underpinning current conservation approaches in protected areas presents a great risk for nature conservation. Consequently, this aligns poorly with the idea of protected areas being a cornerstone for conservation at local, regional and national levels. For that reason and to paint a more complete picture of the effectiveness of protected areas, we argue that when other factors threatening the existence and functioning of protected areas are discussed, we also need to account for biological invasions. This will ensure that adaptive conservation management strategies protect a wide range of species, ecosystems, and landscapes. Hence, this commentary aims to be of general interest for policymakers, managers and researchers.

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Commentary Mon, 18 May 2020 08:16:26 +0300
Clonal growth strategies of Reynoutria japonica in response to light, shade, and mowing, and perspectives for management https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/47511/ NeoBiota 56: 89-110

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.56.47511

Authors: François-Marie Martin, Fanny Dommanget, François Lavallée, André Evette

Abstract: Many of the most invasive plant species in the world can propagate clonally, suggesting clonality offers advantages that facilitate invasion. Gaining insights into the clonal growth dynamics of invasive plants should thus improve understanding of the mechanisms of their dominance, resilience and expansion. Belonging to the shortlist of the most problematic terrestrial invaders, Reynoutria japonica var. japonica Houtt. (Japanese knotweed) has colonized all five continents, likely facilitated by its impressive ability to propagate vegetatively. However, its clonal growth patterns are surprisingly understudied; we still do not know how individuals respond to key environmental conditions, including light availability and disturbance. To contribute to filling this knowledge gap, we designed a mesocosm experiment to observe the morphological variation in R. japonica growth in homogeneous or heterogeneous conditions of light stress (shade) and disturbance (mowing). Rhizome fragments were planted in the middle of large pots between two habitat patches that consisted of either one or a combination of the following three environmental conditions: full light without mowing, full light with frequent mowing, or shade without mowing. At the end of the experiment, biomass and traits related to clonal growth (spacer and rhizome lengths, number of rhizome branches, and number of ramets) were measured. After 14 months, all individuals had survived, even those frequently mowed or growing under heavy shade. We showed that R. japonica adopts a ‘phalanx’ growth form when growing in full light and a ‘guerrilla’ form when entirely shaded. The former is characteristic of a space-occupancy strategy while the latter is more associated with a foraging strategy. In heterogeneous conditions, we also showed that clones seemed to invest preferentially more in favorable habitat patches rather than in unfavorable ones (mowed or shaded), possibly exhibiting an escape strategy. These observations could improve the management of this species, specifically by illustrating how aggressive early control measures must be, by highlighting the importance of repeated mowing of entire stands, as this plant appears to compensate readily to partial mowing, and by informing on its potential responses towards the restoration of a cover of competitive native plants.

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Research Article Thu, 14 May 2020 08:17:15 +0300
Don’t throw the baby out with the bathwater – ban of glyphosate use depends on context https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/51823/ NeoBiota 56: 27-29

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.56.51823

Authors: Jan Pergl, Handrij Härtel, Petr Pyšek, Robert Stejskal

Abstract: not for this short letter

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Commentary Thu, 23 Apr 2020 13:10:24 +0300
The economic cost of control of the invasive yellow-legged Asian hornet https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/38550/ NeoBiota 55: 11-25

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.55.38550

Authors: Morgane Barbet-Massin, Jean-Michel Salles, Franck Courchamp

Abstract: Since its accidental introduction in 2003 in France, the yellow-legged Asian hornet Vespa velutina nigrithorax is rapidly spreading through France and Europe. Economic assessments regarding the costs of invasive species often reveal important costs from required control measures or damages. Despite the rapid invasion of the Asian yellow-legged hornet in Europe and potential damage to apiculture and pollination services, the costs of its invasion have not been evaluated yet. Here we aimed at studying the costs arising from the Asian yellow-legged hornet invasion by providing the first estimate of the control cost. Today, the invasion of the Asian yellow-legged hornet is mostly controlled by nest destruction. We estimated that nest destruction cost €23 million between 2006 and 2015 in France. The yearly cost is increasing as the species keeps spreading and could reach €11.9 million in France, €9.0 million in Italy and €8.6 million in the United Kingdom if the species fills its current climatically suitable distribution. Although more work will be needed to estimate the cost of the Asian yellow-legged hornet on apiculture and pollination services, they likely exceed the current costs of control with nest destruction. It could thus be worth increasing control efforts by aiming at destroying a higher percentage of nests.

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Research Article Fri, 3 Apr 2020 13:56:09 +0300
On the RIP: using Relative Impact Potential to assess the ecological impacts of invasive alien species https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/49547/ NeoBiota 55: 27-60

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.55.49547

Authors: James W. E. Dickey, Ross N. Cuthbert, Josie South, J. Robert Britton, Joe Caffrey, Xuexiu Chang, Kate Crane, Neil E. Coughlan, Erfan Fadaei, Keith D. Farnsworth, Stefanie M. H. Ismar-Rebitz, Patrick W. S. Joyce, Matt Julius, Ciaran Laverty, Frances E. Lucy, Hugh J. MacIsaac, Monica McCard, Ciara L. O. McGlade, Neil Reid, Anthony Ricciardi, Ryan J. Wasserman, Olaf L. F. Weyl, Jaimie T. A. Dick

Abstract: Invasive alien species continue to arrive in new locations with no abatement in rate, and thus greater predictive powers surrounding their ecological impacts are required. In particular, we need improved means of quantifying the ecological impacts of new invasive species under different contexts. Here, we develop a suite of metrics based upon the novel Relative Impact Potential (RIP) metric, combining the functional response (consumer per capita effect), with proxies for the numerical response (consumer population response), providing quantification of invasive species ecological impact. These metrics are comparative in relation to the eco-evolutionary baseline of trophically analogous natives, as well as other invasive species and across multiple populations. Crucially, the metrics also reveal how impacts of invasive species change under abiotic and biotic contexts. While studies focused solely on functional responses have been successful in predictive invasion ecology, RIP retains these advantages while adding vital other predictive elements, principally consumer abundance. RIP can also be combined with propagule pressure to quantify overall invasion risk. By highlighting functional response and numerical response proxies, we outline a user-friendly method for assessing the impacts of invaders of all trophic levels and taxonomic groups. We apply the metric to impact assessment in the face of climate change by taking account of both changing predator consumption rates and prey reproduction rates. We proceed to outline the application of RIP to assess biotic resistance against incoming invasive species, the effect of evolution on invasive species impacts, application to interspecific competition, changing spatio-temporal patterns of invasion, and how RIP can inform biological control. We propose that RIP provides scientists and practitioners with a user-friendly, customisable and, crucially, powerful technique to inform invasive species policy and management.

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Review Article Fri, 3 Apr 2020 10:35:14 +0300
Prevalence and management of Solenopsis invicta in China https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/38584/ NeoBiota 54: 89-124

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.54.38584

Authors: Lei Wang, Ling Zeng, Yijuan Xu, Yongyue Lu

Abstract: Red imported fire ant, Solenopsis invicta, was first found in Taiwan province of China in 2003. To prevent transboundary expansion, the Chinese government has formulated various control strategies in the last 15 years to slow down the spread of S. invicta. Despite all efforts, S. invicta invasion has reached more than 390 counties of 13 provinces and two special administrative regions in China; at present, S. invicta remains at the stage of rapid expansion. The transnational entry of S. invicta is linked to imported logs and wastepaper coming mostly from the United States. In domestic settings, long-distance expansion of S. invicta relied on potted plant and turf transportation. Both monogyne and polygyne social forms of S. invicta were present in China with polygyne colonies as the dominant one. Data on population and breeding dynamics of S. invicta reveal the presence of two peaks annually with nuptial flights occurring throughout the year. Arthropods, plant seeds, and honeydew are important food sources of S. invicta, thereby causing negative impacts on the abundance, diversity, and richness of native arthropod communities. Fire ants are threats not only to agriculture and power facilities, but also to human health, with more than 30% of people having suffered from the sting and 10% having experienced an allergic reaction. To address the expansion of S. invicta, the National Fire Ant Detection and Management Union was established and the formulation and implementation of management policies were drawn. Plant quarantine becomes an essential step in fire ant management, whereas the two-step method of combing toxic baits and contact dust emerges as the forefront method crucial in managing S. invicta. The experience and lessons learned from fire ant management in China could benefit other countries when facing similar challenges.

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Review Article Fri, 20 Mar 2020 09:19:13 +0200
Diverse views among scientists on non-native species https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/38741/ NeoBiota 54: 49-69

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.54.38741

Authors: Rodrigue C. Gbedomon, Valère K. Salako, Martin A. Schlaepfer

Abstract: Conservation scientists have traditionally viewed non-native species (NNS) as potential threats to native biodiversity. Here, we question whether alternative views of NNS exist in the scientific community that stand in contrast to the dominant narrative that emerges from the literature. We asked researchers from the biological, social, and environmental sciences to participate in an anonymous poll regarding the perceived values and threats of NNS. Some 314 individuals responded, approximately half of whom were biologists and half were social or environmental scientists. We grouped responses into three statistical clusters defined by shared responses. We then analyzed the correlation of responses to individual questions and membership of clusters with predictor variables age, gender, and field of work. Overall, a majority of respondents in our sample supported statements that the species-component of biodiversity should include all species (55%) or some types of non-native species (an additional 32%), which contrasts with the manner in which major biodiversity assessments and indicators are constructed. A majority of respondents in our sample (65%) also supported that measurement of the impact of invasive species should be based on the net biological, social, and economic effects, which also represents a marked departure from current methods that focus only on the adverse effects of a subset of NNS considered as invasive. Field of work and age were correlated with clusters and numerous individual responses. For example, biologists were three-times more likely than non-biologists to support a definition of species richness that included only native species. Two clusters (Cluster 1 and Cluster 3), mainly composed of non-biologists and biologists, respectively, differed in their support for statements that NNS would provide useful ecosystem services in the future (66% and 40%, respectively). Thus, a key result of this study is that a variety of normative stances regarding NNS is present within the scientific community. Current international indicators of progress (e.g., Aichi Targets) capture only a “nativist” set of values, which, if our sample is representative of the scientific community, appears to be a minority view. Therefore, we argue that indicators should be modified to integrate the diversity of views that exist within the scientific community.

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Research Article Wed, 22 Jan 2020 11:23:49 +0200
The effect of prey identity and substrate type on the functional response of a globally invasive crayfish https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/39245/ NeoBiota 52: 9-24

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.52.39245

Authors: Josie South, Monica McCard, Dumisani Khosa, Lubabalo Mofu, Takudzwa C. Madzivanzira, Jaimie T. A. Dick, Olaf L. F. Weyl

Abstract: Biological invasions threaten biodiversity on a global scale, therefore, developing predictive methods to understand variation in ecological change conferred is essential. Trophic interaction strength underpins community dynamics, however, these interactions can be profoundly affected by abiotic context, such as substrate type. The red swamp crayfish (Procambarus clarkii) has successfully invaded a number of freshwater ecosystems. We experimentally derive the Functional Response (FR) (density dependent predation) of the red swamp crayfish preying upon both a benthic prey; chironomid larvae, and a pelagic prey; Daphnia magna, on a no substrate control, sand, and gravel substrates to determine whether (1) there is a higher impact on prey that are benthic, and (2) whether the presence of different substrate types can dampen the interaction strength. We apply and demonstrate the utility of the Functional Response Ratio (FRR) metric in unravelling differences in ecological impact not obvious from traditional FR curves. Procambarus clarkii is capable of constantly utilising high numbers of both benthic and pelagic prey items, showing a Type II functional response under all scenarios. The presence of gravel and sand substrate each independently decreased the magnitude FR upon D. magna. Though, with regards to chironomid larvae the FR curves showed no difference in magnitude FR, the FRR reveals that the highest impact is conferred when foraging on sand substrate. This reinforces the need for impact assessments to be contextually relevant.

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Research Article Thu, 7 Nov 2019 08:29:04 +0200
Open Access journals need to become first choice, in invasion ecology and beyond https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/39542/ NeoBiota 52: 1-8

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.52.39542

Authors: Jonathan M. Jeschke, Katy Börner, Victoria Stodden, Klement Tockner

Abstract: N/A

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Editorial Mon, 4 Nov 2019 15:58:28 +0200
Advancing impact assessments of non-native species: strategies for strengthening the evidence-base https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/35940/ NeoBiota 51: 41-64

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.51.35940

Authors: Diederik Strubbe, Rachel White, Pim Edelaar, Carsten Rahbek, Assaf Shwartz

Abstract: The numbers and impacts of non-native species (NNS) continue to grow. Multiple ranking protocols have been developed to identify and manage the most damaging species. However, existing protocols differ considerably in the type of impact they consider, the way evidence of impacts is included and scored, and in the way the precautionary principle is applied. These differences may lead to inconsistent impact assessments. Since these protocols are considered a main policy tool to promote mitigation efforts, such inconsistencies are undesirable, as they can affect our ability to reliably identify the most damaging NNS, and can erode public support for NNS management. Here we propose a broadly applicable framework for building a transparent NNS impact evidence base. First, we advise to separate the collection of evidence of impacts from the act of scoring the severity of these impacts. Second, we propose to map the collected evidence along a set of distinguishing criteria: where it is published, which methodological approach was used to obtain it, the relevance of the geographical area from which it originates, and the direction of the impact. This procedure produces a transparent and reproducible evidence base which can subsequently be used for different scoring protocols, and which should be made public. Finally, we argue that the precautionary principle should only be used at the risk management stage. Conditional upon the evidence presented in an impact assessment, decision-makers may use the precautionary principle for NNS management under scientific uncertainty regarding the likelihood and magnitude of NNS impacts. Our framework paves the way for an improved application of impact assessments protocols, reducing inconsistencies and ultimately enabling more effective NNS management.

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Discussion Paper Tue, 29 Oct 2019 13:27:57 +0200
Genetic and epigenetic regulation of phenotypic variation in invasive plants – linking research trends towards a unified framework https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/33723/ NeoBiota 49: 77-103

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.49.33723

Authors: Achyut Kumar Banerjee, Wuxia Guo, Yelin Huang

Abstract: Phenotypic variation in the introduced range of an invasive species can be modified by genetic variation, environmental conditions and their interaction, as well as stochastic events like genetic drift. Recent studies found that epigenetic modifications may also contribute to phenotypic variation being independent of genetic changes. Despite gaining profound ecological insights from empirical studies, understanding the relative contributions of these molecular mechanisms behind phenotypic variation has received little attention for invasive plant species in particular. This review therefore aimed at summarizing and synthesizing information on the genetic and epigenetic basis of phenotypic variation of alien invasive plants in the introduced range and their evolutionary consequences. Transgenerational inheritance of epigenetic modifications was highlighted focusing on its influence on microevolution of the invasive plant species. We presented a comprehensive account of epigenetic regulation of phenotypic variation and its role in plant invasion in the presence of reduced standing genetic variation, inbreeding depression and associated genomic events which have often been observed during introduction and range expansion of an invasive alien species. Finally, taking clues from the studies conducted so far, we proposed a unified framework of future experimental approaches to understand ecological and evolutionary aspects of phenotypic variation. This holistic approach, being aligned to the invasion process in particular (introduction-establishment-spread), was intended to understand the molecular mechanisms of phenotypic variation of an invasive species in its introduced range and to disentangle the effects of standing genetic variation and epigenetic regulation of phenotypic variation.

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Review Article Mon, 19 Aug 2019 16:59:23 +0300
Native and introduced Argentine ant populations are characterised by distinct transcriptomic signatures associated with behaviour and immunity https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/36086/ NeoBiota 49: 105-126

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.49.36086

Authors: Antoine Felden, Carolina Paris, David G. Chapple, Andrew V. Suarez, Neil D. Tsutsui, Philip J. Lester, Monica A. M. Gruber

Abstract: Biological invasions can be influenced by trait variation in the invader, such as behavioural traits and ecological factors, such as variation in pathogen pressure. High-throughput nucleotide sequencing has increased our capacity to investigate the genomic basis of the functional changes associated with biological invasions. Here, we used RNA-sequencing in Argentina and California, Australia and New Zealand to investigate if native and introduced Argentine ant populations were characterised by distinct transcriptomic signatures. We focused our analysis on viral pressure and immunity, as well as genes associated with biogenic amines known to modulate key behaviour in social insects. Using a combination of differential expression analysis, gene co-expression network analysis and candidate gene approach, we show that native and introduced populations have distinct transcriptomic signatures. Genes associated with biogenic amines were overall up-regulated in the native range compared to introduced populations. Although we found no significant variation in overall viral loads amongst regions for viruses known to infect Argentine ants, viral diversity was lower in most of the introduced range which was interestingly associated with down-regulation of the RNAi immune pathway, primarily directed against viruses. Altogether, our data show that Argentine ant populations exhibit range-specific transcriptomic signatures, perhaps reflecting regional adaptations that may contribute to the ecological success of introduced populations.

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Research Article Mon, 19 Aug 2019 11:30:48 +0300
Assessing the ecological and societal impacts of alien parrots in Europe using a transparent and inclusive evidence-mapping scheme https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/34222/ NeoBiota 48: 45-69

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.48.34222

Authors: Rachel L. White, Diederik Strubbe, Martin Dallimer, Zoe G. Davies, Amy J.S. Davis, Pim Edelaar, Jim Groombridge, Hazel A. Jackson, Mattia Menchetti, Emiliano Mori, Boris P. Nikolov, Liviu G. Pârâu, Živa F. Pečnikar, Tristan J. Pett, Luís Reino, Simon Tollington, Anne Turbé, Assaf Shwartz

Abstract: Globally, the number of invasive alien species (IAS) continues to increase and management and policy responses typically need to be adopted before conclusive empirical evidence on their environmental and socioeconomic impacts are available. Consequently, numerous protocols exist for assessing IAS impacts and differ considerably in which evidence they include. However, inclusive strategies for building a transparent evidence base underlying IAS impact assessments are lacking, potentially affecting our ability to reliably identify priority IAS. Using alien parrots in Europe as a case study, here we apply an evidence-mapping scheme to classify impact evidence and evaluate the consequences of accepting different subsets of available evidence on impact assessment outcomes. We collected environmental and socioeconomic impact data in multiple languages using a “wiki-review” process, comprising a systematic evidence search and an online editing and consultation phase. Evidence was classified by parrot species, impact category (e.g. infrastructure), geographical area (e.g. native range), source type (e.g. peer-review), study design (e.g. experimental) and impact direction (deleterious, beneficial and no impact). Our comprehensive database comprised 386 impact entries from 233 sources. Most evidence was anecdotal (50%). A total of 42% of entries reported damage to agriculture (mainly in native ranges), while within Europe most entries concerned interspecific competition (39%). We demonstrate that the types of evidence included in assessments can strongly influence impact severity scores. For example, including evidence from the native range or anecdotal evidence resulted in an overall switch from minimal-moderate to moderate-major overall impact scores. We advise using such an evidence-mapping approach to create an inclusive and updatable database as the foundation for more transparent IAS impact assessments. When openly shared, such evidence-mapping can help better inform IAS research, management and policy.

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Research Article Mon, 15 Jul 2019 09:52:44 +0300
The value of sentinel plants for risk assessment and surveillance to support biosecurity https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/34205/ NeoBiota 48: 1-24

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.48.34205

Authors: Sarah Mansfield, Mark R. McNeill, Lee T. Aalders, Nigel L. Bell, John M. Kean, Barbara I.P. Barratt, Kirsty Boyd-Wilson, David A.J. Teulon

Abstract: Effective surveillance for early detection of invasive alien species in natural ecosystems, or on valued plants found in modified areas, could prevent potentially devastating and costly impacts (whether environmental, economic or cultural) of new invasions on the invaded country. Surveillance technologies are often constrained by a range of factors. Determining which species present a significant risk before they reach the border is an effective strategy to minimize the possibility of invasion and/or the impact of invasion. Surveillance of sentinel plants provides an important tool to strengthen biosecurity programs assisting with i) detecting and identifying insect pests, nematodes and plant diseases that could potentially invade uncolonized countries, and ii) developing pest risk analysis profiles to eliminate or mitigate the risk of arrival. This review examines some of the challenges and opportunities provided by sentinel plant research and discusses the factors that could affect the success of their use for biosecurity risk assessment and surveillance in the New Zealand context.

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Discussion Paper Tue, 2 Jul 2019 16:14:26 +0300
Forewarned is forearmed: harmonized approaches for early detection of potentially invasive pests and pathogens in sentinel plantings https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/34276/ NeoBiota 47: 95-123

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.47.34276

Authors: Carmen Morales-Rodríguez, Sten Anslan, Marie-Anne Auger-Rozenberg, Sylvie Augustin, Yuri Baranchikov, Amani Bellahirech, Daiva Burokienė, Dovilė Čepukoit, Ejup Çota, Kateryna Davydenko, H. Tuğba Doğmuş Lehtijärvi, Rein Drenkhan, Tiia Drenkhan, René Eschen, Iva Franić, Milka Glavendekić, Maarten de Groot, Magdalena Kacprzyk, Marc Kenis, Natalia Kirichenko, Iryna Matsiakh, Dmitry L. Musolin, Justyna A. Nowakowska, Richard O’Hanlon, Simone Prospero, Alain Roques, Alberto Santini, Venche Talgø, Leho Tedersoo, Anne Uimari, Andrea Vannini, Johanna Witzell, Steve Woodward, Antonios Zambounis, Michelle Cleary

Abstract: The number of invasive alien pest and pathogen species affecting ecosystem functioning, human health and economies has increased dramatically over the last decades. Discoveries of invasive pests and pathogens previously unknown to science or with unknown host associations yet damaging on novel hosts highlights the necessity of developing novel tools to predict their appearance in hitherto naïve environments. The use of sentinel plant systems is a promising tool to improve the detection of pests and pathogens before introduction and to provide valuable information for the development of preventative measures to minimize economic or environmental impacts. Though sentinel plantings have been established and studied during the last decade, there still remains a great need for guidance on which tools and protocols to put into practice in order to make assessments accurate and reliable. The sampling and diagnostic protocols chosen should enable as much information as possible about potential damaging agents and species identification. Consistency and comparison of results are based on the adoption of common procedures for sampling design and sample processing. In this paper, we suggest harmonized procedures that should be used in sentinel planting surveys for effective sampling and identification of potential pests and pathogens. We also review the benefits and limitations of various diagnostic methods for early detection in sentinel systems, and the feasibility of the results obtained supporting National Plant Protection Organizations in pest and commodity risk analysis.

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Discussion Paper Fri, 21 Jun 2019 09:48:18 +0300
A citation-based map of concepts in invasion biology https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/32608/ NeoBiota 47: 23-42

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.47.32608

Authors: Martin Enders, Frank Havemann, Jonathan M. Jeschke

Abstract: Invasion biology has been quickly expanding in the last decades so that it is now metaphorically flooded with publications, concepts, and hypotheses. Among experts, there is no clear consensus about the relationships between invasion concepts, and almost no one seems to have a good overview of the literature anymore. Similar observations can be made for other research fields. Science needs new navigation tools so that researchers within and outside of a research field as well as science journalists, students, teachers, practitioners, policy-makers, and others interested in the field can more easily understand its key ideas. Such navigation tools could, for example, be maps of the major concepts and hypotheses of a research field. Applying a bibliometric method, we created such maps for invasion biology. We analysed research papers of the last two decades citing at least two of 35 common invasion hypotheses. Co-citation analysis yields four distinct clusters of hypotheses. These clusters can describe the main directions in invasion biology and explain basic driving forces behind biological invasions. The method we outline here for invasion biology can be easily applied for other research fields.

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Research Article Wed, 19 Jun 2019 09:53:54 +0300
Introducing AlienScenarios: a project to develop scenarios and models of biological invasions for the 21 st century https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/33366/ NeoBiota 45: 1-17

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.45.33366

Authors: Franz Essl, Bernd Lenzner, Franck Courchamp, Stefan Dullinger, Jonathan M. Jeschke, Ingolf Kühn, Brian Leung, Dietmar Moser, Núria Roura-Pascual, Hanno Seebens

Abstract: AlienScenarios, a three-year project starting in March 2019, will evaluate for the first time the range of plausible futures of biological invasions for the 21st century. AlienScenarios consists of seven project partners and seven integrated complementary subprojects. We will develop the qualitative narratives for plausible futures of global alien species richness and impacts in the 21st century – the Alien Species Narratives (ASNs). The ASNs further serve as overarching concept to parameterize quantitative models of global, continental and regional futures of biological invasions. We will also establish the first global mechanistic invasion model considering major processes of biological invasions such as source pools, driver dynamics and establishment rates. Further, we will assess the impacts of invasive alien species (IAS) in terms of economic costs according to the different ASNs. In addition, we will assess the consequences of different levels of implementation of the European Union Regulation on IAS. Providing some more detailed regional information, we will analyse changes of the functional composition of communities in mountain regions under different scenario storylines and will extend the analyses to the Global South using Panama as a country-level case study. Finally, the results of the other WPs will be synthesized, and the approach and results of AlienScenarios will be discussed with and communicated to stakeholders and the wider community. AlienScenarios will provide crucially needed insights for pro-active alien species management and policy. It will thus make an important contribution to global assessments and projections of biodiversity and ecosystem services, as well as regional policies (e.g. EU regulation on IAS).

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Project Description Mon, 15 Apr 2019 16:39:33 +0300
Does invasive species research use more militaristic language than other ecology and conservation biology literature? https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/32925/ NeoBiota 44: 27-38

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.44.32925

Authors: Rachel M. Janovsky, Eric R. Larson

Abstract: Invasive species research has been criticised for a reliance on hyperbolic or sensationalistic language, including the use of militaristic language that dates to the popularisation of this concept. We sought to evaluate whether the invasive species literature used more militaristic language than other literature across the fields of ecology and conservation biology, given that many research areas in these fields (e.g. competition) may routinely use militaristic language. We compared militaristic language use in journal articles on invasive species or other topics across both applied and basic science journals in the fields of ecology and conservation biology. We further restricted our study to papers where lead-authors were located at institutions in the United States, to evaluate whether militaristic language use varied over peace time and conflict periods for this country. We found no significant differences in the percentage of journal articles that used any militaristic language between either invasive species research or research on other topics, but we did find that invasive species research used a greater frequency (count) of militaristic language per article than research on other topics. We also found that basic rather than applied science journals were more likely to use militaristic language and we detected no significant effect of time period on the usage of militaristic language in the ecology and conservation biology literature. Researchers working on invasive species should continue to be conscientious about their language use on this occasionally controversial topic, particularly in basic science journals.

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Research Article Thu, 4 Apr 2019 10:08:56 +0300
Assessing the environmental impacts of invasive alien plants: a review of assessment approaches https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/30122/ NeoBiota 43: 69-99

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.43.30122

Authors: Robert Bartz, Ingo Kowarik

Abstract: Assessing the impacts of alien plant species is a major task in invasion science and vitally important for supporting invasion-related policies. Since 1993, a range of assessment approaches have been developed to support decisions on the introduction or management of alien species. Here we review the extent to which assessments (27 approaches) appraised the following: (i) different types of environmental impacts, (ii) context dependence of environmental impacts, (iii) prospects for successful management, and (iv) transparency of assessment methods and criteria, underlying values and terminology. While nearly all approaches covered environmental effects, changes in genetic diversity and the incorporation of relevant impact parameters were less likely to be included. Many approaches considered context dependence by incorporating information about the actual or potential range of alien species. However, only a few went further and identified which resources of conservation concern might be affected by specific alien plant species. Only some approaches acknowledged underlying values by distinguishing negative from positive impacts or by considering the conservation value of affected resources. Several approaches directly addressed the feasibility of management, whereas relevant factors such as availability of suitable management methods were rarely considered. Finally, underlying values were rarely disclosed, and definitions of value-laden or controversial terms were often lacking. We conclude that despite important progress in assessing the manifold facets of invasion impacts, opportunities remain for further developing impact assessment approaches. These changes can improve assessment results and their acceptance in invasion-related environmental policies.

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Review Article Fri, 15 Mar 2019 10:10:08 +0200
Research on the social perception of invasive species: a systematic literature review https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/31619/ NeoBiota 43: 47-68

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.43.31619

Authors: Katharina Kapitza, Heike Zimmermann, Berta Martín-López, Henrik von Wehrden

Abstract: We conducted a systematic literature review of the current state of research on the social perceptions of invasive species, aiming to provide guidance towards transdisciplinary research and participatory decision making. In order to detect patterns regarding publication trends and factors determining social perceptions of invasive species, we applied qualitative content as well as quantitative data analysis. By applying content analysis, we identified five main categories of influence on the perception of invasive species: ecological conditions, social conditions, values and beliefs, impacts, and benefits. The disciplinary focus of the research was predominantly interdisciplinary, followed by a social sciences approach. Our review revealed a disproportionate use of quantitative methods in research on social perceptions of invasive species, yet quantitative methods were less likely to identify benefits as factors determining the perception of invasive species. However, without the understanding of perceived benefits, researchers and managers lack the socio-cultural context these species are embedded in. Our review also revealed the geographical, methodological and taxonomic bias of research on perceptions of invasive species. The majority of studies focused on the local public, whereas fewer than half of the studies focused on decision-makers. Furthermore, our results showed differences in the social perceptions of invasive species among different stakeholder groups. Consensus over the definition and terminology of invasive species was lacking whereas differences in terminology were clearly value-laden. In order to foster sustainable management of invasive species, research on social perceptions should focus on a transdisciplinary and transparent discourse about the inherent values of invasion science.

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Review Article Thu, 14 Mar 2019 10:43:11 +0200
Steatoda nobilis, a false widow on the rise: a synthesis of past and current distribution trends https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/31582/ NeoBiota 42: 19-43

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.42.31582

Authors: Tobias Bauer, Stephan Feldmeier, Henrik Krehenwinkel, Carsten Wieczorrek, Nils Reiser, Rainer Breitling

Abstract: The Noble False Widow, Steatoda nobilis (Thorell, 1875) (Araneae, Theridiidae), is, due to its relatively large size and potential medical importance, one of the most notable invasive spider species worldwide. Probably originating from the Canary Islands and Madeira, the species is well established in Western Europe and large parts of the Mediterranean area and has spread recently into California and South America, while Central European populations were not known until 2011. We report on long-time observations that reveal that at least two flourishing populations in Germany (Cologne) have been present for over five years, while in Ecuador one population has been observed between 2014 and 2018 and several other records were made in other parts of the country. Data obtained from the British Spider Recording Scheme demonstrate that the species moved significantly northwards since the report of the first populations in the very South of England, after several decades of relative stasis. The sudden northward expansion highly correlates with a massive rise in press coverage of the species. In the Americas, S. nobilis is currently known from four countries (USA, Chile, Ecuador, Colombia), and available DNA barcoding data obtained for specimens from this area suggest that multiple introductions occurred within each country. Using ecological niche modeling, we identified suitable climate regions for the species and discuss possible reasons for its current spread. We propose that seaside cities and villages with a temperate oceanic or Mediterranean climate are especially favourable potential habitats for S. nobilis and will face the highest colonization pressure in the future, while tropical upland regions with temperate climates are also vulnerable to invasion by S. nobilis.

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Research Article Mon, 11 Feb 2019 12:34:23 +0200
Identifying thresholds and ceilings in plant community recovery for optimal management of widespread weeds https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/30797/ NeoBiota 42: 1-18

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.42.30797

Authors: F. Dane Panetta, Luke S. O’Loughlin, Ben Gooden

Abstract: A substantial body of work underlies the theory and practice of early intervention in the management of invasive alien plants, but less attention has been paid to the strategic management of widespread weeds, especially in the context of natural asset recovery. The assumption lingers amongst some researchers and land managers that removing weeds will automatically lead to positive biodiversity outcomes, with the more weed removed, the better the outcome. However, this is often not the case, particularly for long-established weed species whose dominance has created impoverished communities with little capacity for passive recovery. A common result may be wasted investment in weed control and, in the extreme, net negative impacts upon asset values. We present a conceptual model for the management of weed-impacted assets, plus guidance for its application, with a view to improving asset recovery practice. Weed removal should be calibrated by asset recovery, which may mean not seeking to completely remove a weed at a given spatial scale. Our model focusses on weed removal that is enough to initiate asset recovery, but not more than is necessary to promote maximum expression of asset resilience, particularly in the context of secondary invasions. Optimal management efficiency will involve a proportional allocation of resources to control, monitoring and revegetation activities that is appropriate to the stage of asset recovery, as well as a willingness to revise a management goal if the original one cannot be achieved within existing constraints on resources.

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Discussion Paper Wed, 6 Feb 2019 15:40:00 +0200
Global environmental and socio-economic impacts of selected alien grasses as a basis for ranking threats to South Africa https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/26599/ NeoBiota 41: 19-65

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.41.26599

Authors: Khensani V. Nkuna, Vernon Visser, John R.U. Wilson, Sabrina Kumschick

Abstract: Decisions to allocate management resources should be underpinned by estimates of the impacts of biological invasions that are comparable across species and locations. For the same reason, it is important to assess what type of impacts are likely to occur where, and if such patterns can be generalised. In this paper, we aim to understand factors shaping patterns in the type and magnitude of impacts of a subset of alien grasses. We used the Generic Impact Scoring System (GISS) to review and quantify published impact records of 58 grass species that are alien to South Africa and to at least one other biogeographical realm. Based on the GISS scores, we investigated how impact magnitudes varied across habitats, regions and impact mechanisms using multiple regression. We found impact records for 48 species. Cortaderia selloana had the highest overall impact score, although in contrast to five other species (Glyceria maxima, Nassella trichotoma, Phalaris aquatica, Polypogon monspeliensis, and Sorghum halepense) it did not score the highest possible impact score for any specific impact mechanism. Consistent with other studies, we found that the most frequent environmental impact was through competition with native plant species (with 75% of cases). Socio-economic impacts were recorded more often and tended to be greater in magnitude than environmental impacts, with impacts recorded particularly often on agricultural and animal production (57% and 51% of cases respectively). There was variation across different regions and habitats in impact magnitude, but the differences were not statistically significant. In conclusion, alien grasses present in South Africa have caused a wide range of negative impacts across most habitats and regions of the world. Reviewing impacts from around the world has provided important information for the management of alien grasses in South Africa, and, we believe, is an important component of management prioritisation processes in general.

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Research Article Fri, 21 Dec 2018 16:30:06 +0200
Forecasting the global extent of invasion of the cereal pest Spodoptera frugiperda, the fall armyworm https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/28165/ NeoBiota 40: 25-50

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.40.28165

Authors: Regan Early, Pablo González-Moreno, Sean T. Murphy, Roger Day

Abstract: Fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda, is a crop pest native to the Americas, which has invaded and spread throughout sub-Saharan Africa within two years. Recent estimates of 20–50% maize yield loss in Africa suggest severe impact on livelihoods. Fall armyworm is still infilling its potential range in Africa and could spread to other continents. In order to understand fall armyworm’s year-round, global, potential distribution, we used evidence of the effects of temperature and precipitation on fall armyworm life-history, combined with data on native and African distributions to construct Species Distribution Models (SDMs). We also investigated the strength of trade and transportation pathways that could carry fall armyworm beyond Africa. Up till now, fall armyworm has only invaded areas that have a climate similar to the native distribution, validating the use of climatic SDMs. The strongest climatic limits on fall armyworm’s year-round distribution are the coldest annual temperature and the amount of rain in the wet season. Much of sub-Saharan Africa can host year-round fall armyworm populations, but the likelihoods of colonising North Africa and seasonal migrations into Europe are hard to predict. South and Southeast Asia and Australia have climate conditions that would permit fall armyworm to invade. Current trade and transportation routes reveal Australia, China, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines and Thailand face high threat of fall armyworm invasions originating from Africa.

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Research Article Fri, 9 Nov 2018 15:12:54 +0200
Assessing the relative potential ecological impacts and invasion risks of emerging and future invasive alien species https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/28519/ NeoBiota 40: 1-24

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.40.28519

Authors: James W.E. Dickey, Ross N. Cuthbert, Michael Rea, Ciaran Laverty, Kate Crane, Josie South, Elizabeta Briski, Xuexiu Chang, Neil E. Coughlan, Hugh J. MacIsaac, Anthony Ricciardi, Gillian E. Riddell, Meng Xu, Jaimie T.A. Dick

Abstract: Invasive alien species (IAS) cause myriad negative impacts, such as ecosystem disruption, human, animal and plant health issues, economic damage and species extinctions. There are many sources of emerging and future IAS, such as the poorly regulated international pet trade. However, we lack methodologies to predict the likely ecological impacts and invasion risks of such IAS which have little or no informative invasion history. This study develops the Relative Impact Potential (RIP) metric, a new measure of ecological impact that incorporates per capita functional responses (FRs) and proxies for numerical responses (NRs) associated with emerging invaders. Further, as propagule pressure is a determinant of invasion risk, we combine the new measure of Pet Propagule Pressure (PPP) with RIP to arrive at a second novel metric, Relative Invasion Risk (RIR). We present methods to calculate these metrics and to display the outputs on intuitive bi- and triplots. We apply RIP/RIR to assess the potential ecological impacts and invasion risks of four commonly traded pet turtles that represent emerging IAS: Trachemys scripta scripta, the yellow-bellied slider; T. s. troostii, the Cumberland slider; Sternotherus odoratus, the common musk turtle; and Kinosternon subrubrum, the Eastern mud turtle. The high maximum feeding rate and high attack rate of T. s. scripta, combined with its numerical response proxies of lifespan and fecundity, gave it the highest impact potential. It was also the second most readily available according to our UK surveys, indicating a high invasion risk. Despite having the lowest maximum feeding rate and attack rate, S. odoratus has a high invasion risk due to high availability and we highlight this species as requiring monitoring. The RIP/RIR metrics offer two universally applicable methods to assess potential impacts and risks associated with emerging and future invaders in the pet trade and other sources of future IAS. These metrics highlight T. s. scripta as having high impact and invasion risk, corroborating its position on the EU list of 49 IAS of Union Concern. This suggests our methodology and metrics have great potential to direct future IAS policy decisions and management. This, however, relies on collation and generation of new data on alien species functional responses, numerical responses and their proxies, and imaginative measures of propagule pressure.

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Research Article Fri, 19 Oct 2018 10:01:08 +0300
Patterns and traits associated with invasions by predatory marine crabs https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/22002/ NeoBiota 39: 79-102

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.39.22002

Authors: Cheruscha Swart, Vernon Visser, Tamara B. Robinson

Abstract: Predatory crabs are considered amongst the most successful marine invasive groups. Nonetheless, most studies of these taxa have been descriptive in nature, biased towards specific species or regions and have seldom considered traits associated with invasiveness. To address this gap in knowledge, this study presents a global review of invasions by this group and applies biological trait analysis to investigate traits associated with invasion success. A total of 56 species belonging to 15 families were identified as having spread outside their native ranges. The family Portunidae supported the highest number of alien species (22). Most crabs had their origin in the North West Pacific IUCN bioregion while the Mediterranean Sea received the most species. No traits associated with successful establishment were identified, but this finding may reflect the paucity of basic biological knowledge held for many species. This lack of foundational knowledge was unexpected as crabs are large and conspicuous and likely to be well studied when compared to many other groups. Addressing this knowledge gap will be the first step towards enabling approaches like biological trait analysis that offer a means to investigate generalities in invasions.

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Research Article Tue, 28 Aug 2018 09:39:30 +0300
Models of alien species richness show moderate predictive accuracy and poor transferability https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/23518/ NeoBiota 38: 77-96

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.38.23518

Authors: César Capinha, Franz Essl, Hanno Seebens, Henrique Miguel Pereira, Ingolf Kühn

Abstract: Robust predictions of alien species richness are useful to assess global biodiversity change. Nevertheless, the capacity to predict spatial patterns of alien species richness remains largely unassessed. Using 22 data sets of alien species richness from diverse taxonomic groups and covering various parts of the world, we evaluated whether different statistical models were able to provide useful predictions of absolute and relative alien species richness, as a function of explanatory variables representing geographical, environmental and socio-economic factors. Five state-of-the-art count data modelling techniques were used and compared: Poisson and negative binomial generalised linear models (GLMs), multivariate adaptive regression splines (MARS), random forests (RF) and boosted regression trees (BRT). We found that predictions of absolute alien species richness had a low to moderate accuracy in the region where the models were developed and a consistently poor accuracy in new regions. Predictions of relative richness performed in a superior manner in both geographical settings, but still were not good. Flexible tree ensembles-type techniques (RF and BRT) were shown to be significantly better in modelling alien species richness than parametric linear models (such as GLM), despite the latter being more commonly applied for this purpose. Importantly, the poor spatial transferability of models also warrants caution in assuming the generality of the relationships they identify, e.g. by applying projections under future scenario conditions. Ultimately, our results strongly suggest that predictability of spatial variation in richness of alien species richness is limited. The somewhat more robust ability to rank regions according to the number of aliens they have (i.e. relative richness), suggests that models of aliens species richness may be useful for prioritising and comparing regions, but not for predicting exact species numbers.

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Research Article Wed, 6 Jun 2018 09:19:33 +0300
The relevance of using various scoring schemes revealed by an impact assessment of feral mammals https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/23509/ NeoBiota 38: 37-75

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.38.23509

Authors: Bianca L. Hagen, Sabrina Kumschick

Abstract: Impact scoring schemes are useful for identifying to what extent alien species cause damage. Quantifying the similarity and differences between impact scoring schemes can help determine how to optimally use these tools for policy decisions. Using feral mammals (including rats and mice) as a case study, environmental and socio-economic impacts were assessed using three schemes, namely the Generic Impact Scoring System (GISS), Environmental Impact Classification for Alien Taxa (EICAT) and Socio-Economic Impact Classification for Alien Taxa (SEICAT). The results show that socio-economic impacts scores differ between the respective schemes (GISS and SEICAT) possibly because they assess different aspects of social life and economy. This suggests that both scoring schemes should ideally be applied in concert to get a complete picture of socio-economic impacts. In contrast, environmental impact scores are correlated between GISS and EICAT assessments and this similarity is consistent over most mechanisms except for predation and ecosystems, suggesting that one scoring scheme is sufficient to capture all the environmental impacts. Furthermore, we present evidence for the island susceptibility hypothesis as impacts of feral mammals were found to be higher on islands compared to mainlands.

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Research Article Wed, 16 May 2018 11:44:11 +0300
The Homogocene: a research prospectus for the study of biotic homogenisation https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/22552/ NeoBiota 37: 23-36

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.37.22552

Authors: Julian D. Olden, Lise Comte, Xingli Giam

Abstract: In an era of global change, the process of biotic homogenisation by which regional biotas become more similar through time has attracted considerable attention from ecologists. Here, a retrospective look at the literature is taken and the question asked how comprehensive is the understanding of this global phenomenon? The goal is to identify potential areas for additional and future enquiries to advance this research frontier and best ensure the long-term preservation of biological diversity across the world. Six propositions are presented here to; (1) broaden our geographic and taxonomic understanding, (2) diversify the spatial and temporal scales of inquiry, (3) reconcile past and embrace new approaches to quantification, (4) improve our knowledge of the underlying drivers, (5) reveal the conservation implications and (6) forecast future homogenisation. It is argued that significant progress in the understanding of the causes, consequences and conservation implication of biotic homogenisation will come by integrating concepts and approaches from ecology, evolution and conservation across a hierarchy of spatial and temporal scales.

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Short Communication Tue, 6 Mar 2018 09:28:17 +0200
Managing for biodiversity: impact and action thresholds for invasive plants in natural ecosystems https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/11821/ NeoBiota 34: 53-66

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.34.11821

Authors: F. Dane Panetta, Ben Gooden

Abstract: Some studies examining the impacts of invasive plant species in native plant communities have demonstrated non-linear damage functions, whereby community components, such as species richness, are seemingly unaffected by the presence of an invader until it has attained relatively high levels of abundance, whereupon there is a marked decrease with further increases in abundance. Given chronic limitations in the resources available for managing invasive species, it has been argued that the most damaging invaders would be controlled most efficiently by maintaining their abundances below such threshold levels. Because many impact studies do not involve sampling over a wide range of invader abundances it is not possible to estimate the prevalence of threshold relationships. Furthermore, studies that have employed appropriate sampling methods have shown that different life forms exhibit different threshold responses, indicating that maintenance management for biodiversity values should be designed to protect the most sensitive species or groups of species. Since control costs increase with invader abundance, economic and ecological considerations are aligned when invaders are sustainably maintained at relatively low abundances. Adopting such an approach should also minimise negative impacts where damage functions are linear.

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Review Article Thu, 4 May 2017 10:49:57 +0300
Taxonomic perils and pitfalls of dataset assembly in ecology: a case study of the naturalized Asteraceae in Australia https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/11139/ NeoBiota 34: 1-20

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.34.11139

Authors: Brad R. Murray, Leigh J. Martin, Megan L. Phillips, Petr Pyšek

Abstract: The value of plant ecological datasets with hundreds or thousands of species is principally determined by the taxonomic accuracy of their plant names. However, combining existing lists of species to assemble a harmonized dataset that is clean of taxonomic errors can be a difficult task for non-taxonomists. Here, we describe the range of taxonomic difficulties likely to be encountered during dataset assembly and present an easy-to-use taxonomic cleaning protocol aimed at assisting researchers not familiar with the finer details of taxonomic cleaning. The protocol produces a final dataset (FD) linked to a companion dataset (CD), providing clear details of the path from existing lists to the FD taken by each cleaned taxon. Taxa are checked off against ten categories in the CD that succinctly summarize all taxonomic modifications required. Two older, publicly-available lists of naturalized Asteraceae in Australia were merged into a harmonized dataset as a case study to quantify the impacts of ignoring the critical process of taxonomic cleaning in invasion ecology. Our FD of naturalized Asteraceae contained 257 species and infra-species. Without implementation of the full cleaning protocol, the dataset would have contained 328 taxa, a 28% overestimate of taxon richness by 71 taxa. Our naturalized AsteraceaeCD described the exclusion of 88 names due to nomenclatural issues (e.g. synonymy), the inclusion of 26 updated currently accepted names and four taxa newly naturalized since the production of the source datasets, and the exclusion of 13 taxa that were either found not to be in Australia or were in fact doubtfully naturalized. This study also supports the notion that automated processes alone will not be enough to ensure taxonomically clean datasets, and that manual scrutiny of data is essential. In the long term, this will best be supported by increased investment in taxonomy and botany in university curricula.

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Research Article Fri, 3 Feb 2017 11:29:23 +0200
Patterns of selectivity in introductions of mammal species worldwide https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/10471/ NeoBiota 33: 33-51

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.33.10471

Authors: Tim M. Blackburn, Sally L. Scrivens, Sarah Heinrich, Phillip Cassey

Abstract: Humans have an extremely long history of transporting and introducing mammal species outside their native geographic ranges. The characteristics of the species introduced (taxonomy, life-history, ecology, environment) can all influence which traits are available (and selected) for establishment, and subsequent invasive spread. Understanding the non-randomness in species introductions is therefore key to understanding invasions by alien species. Here, we test for selectivity in the identities and traits of mammal species introduced worldwide. We compiled and analysed a comprehensive database of introduced mammal species, including information on a broad range of life history, ecological, distributional and environmental variables that we predicted to differ between introduced and non-introduced mammal species. Certain mammal taxa are much more likely to have been introduced than expected, such as Artiodactyls in the families Bovidae and Cervidae. Rodents and bats were much less likely to have been introduced than expected. Introduced mammal species have significantly larger body masses, longer lifespans and larger litter sizes than a random sample of all mammal species. They also have much larger native geographic ranges than expected, originate from significantly further north, from cooler areas, and from areas with higher human population densities, than mammal species with no recorded introductions. The traits and distributions of species help determine which have been introduced, and reflect how the evolutionary history of mammals has resulted in certain species with certain traits being located in the way of human histories of movement and demands for goods and services. The large amount of unexplained variation is likely to relate to the intrinsically stochastic nature of this human-driven process.

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Research Article Fri, 27 Jan 2017 16:32:21 +0200
Impact assessment with different scoring tools: How well do alien amphibian assessments match? https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/10376/ NeoBiota 33: 53-66

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.33.10376

Authors: Sabrina Kumschick, Giovanni Vimercati, F. Andre de Villiers, Mohlamatsane M. Mokhatla, Sarah J. Davies, Corey J. Thorp, Alexander D. Rebelo, G. John Measey

Abstract: Classification of alien species’ impacts can aid policy making through evidence based listing and management recommendations. We highlight differences and a number of potential difficulties with two scoring tools, the Environmental Impact Classification of Alien Taxa (EICAT) and the Generic Impact Scoring System (GISS) using amphibians as a case study. Generally, GISS and EICAT assessments lead to very similar impact levels, but scores from the schemes are not equivalent. Small differences are attributable to discrepancies in the verbal descriptions for scores. Differences were found in several impact categories. While the issue of disease appears to be related to uncertainties in both schemes, hybridisation might be inflated in EICAT. We conclude that GISS scores cannot directly be translated into EICAT classifications, but they give very similar outcomes and the same literature base can be used for both schemes.

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Research Article Fri, 27 Jan 2017 10:23:10 +0200
Evaluating simplistic methods to understand current distributions and forecast distribution changes under climate change scenarios: an example with coypu (Myocastor coypus) https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/8884/ NeoBiota 32: 107-125

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.32.8884

Authors: Catherine S. Jarnevich, Nicholas E. Young, Trevor R. Sheffels, Jacoby Carter, Mark D. Sytsma, Colin Talbert

Abstract: Invasive species provide a unique opportunity to evaluate factors controlling biogeographic distributions; we can consider introduction success as an experiment testing suitability of environmental conditions. Predicting potential distributions of spreading species is not easy, and forecasting potential distributions with changing climate is even more difficult. Using the globally invasive coypu (Myocastor coypus [Molina, 1782]), we evaluate and compare the utility of a simplistic ecophysiological based model and a correlative model to predict current and future distribution. The ecophysiological model was based on winter temperature relationships with nutria survival. We developed correlative statistical models using the Software for Assisted Habitat Modeling and biologically relevant climate data with a global extent. We applied the ecophysiological based model to several global circulation model (GCM) predictions for mid-century. We used global coypu introduction data to evaluate these models and to explore a hypothesized physiological limitation, finding general agreement with known coypu distribution locally and globally and support for an upper thermal tolerance threshold. Global circulation model based model results showed variability in coypu predicted distribution among GCMs, but had general agreement of increasing suitable area in the USA. Our methods highlighted the dynamic nature of the edges of the coypu distribution due to climate non-equilibrium, and uncertainty associated with forecasting future distributions. Areas deemed suitable habitat, especially those on the edge of the current known range, could be used for early detection of the spread of coypu populations for management purposes. Combining approaches can be beneficial to predicting potential distributions of invasive species now and in the future and in exploring hypotheses of factors controlling distributions.

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Research Article Wed, 4 Jan 2017 19:00:00 +0200
Defining the biosecurity risk posed by transported soil: Effects of storage time and environmental exposure on survival of soil biota https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/9784/ NeoBiota 32: 65-88

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.32.9784

Authors: Mark R. McNeill, Craig B. Phillips, Andrew P. Robinson, Lee Aalders, Nicky Richards, Sandra Young, Claire Dowsett, Trevor James, Nigel Bell

Abstract: Soil frequently occurs as a contaminant on numerous sea, land and air transport pathways. It can carry unwanted invasive species, is widely recognized as a biosecurity risk, and is usually strictly regulated by biosecurity authorities. However, little is known about relative risk levels between pathways, thus authorities have limited capability to identify and target the riskiest soil pathways for management. We conducted a an experiment to test the hypotheses that biosecurity risks from soil organisms will increase both with declining transport duration and with increasing protection from environmental extremes. Soil was collected from two sites, a native forest remnant and an orchard, and stored on, in and under sea containers, or in cupboards, and assayed after 0, 3, 6 and 12 months for bacteria, fungi, nematodes and seeds. Results showed that viability of Pseudomonas spp., bacteria, nematodes and plants declined over 12 months, irrespective of soil source. Also, mortality of most biota was higher when exposed to sunlight, moisture and desiccation than when protected. However, bacterial and fungal numbers were higher in exposed environments, possibly due to ongoing colonization of exposed soil by airborne propagules. The results were consistent with our observations of organisms in soil intercepted from airports and sea ports, and indicated there is potential to rank risks from transported soils based partly on transport duration and environmental exposure. This would help authorities to optimally allocate management resources according to pathway-specific risks.

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Research Article Wed, 4 Jan 2017 19:00:00 +0200
Confronting the wicked problem of managing biological invasions https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/10038/ NeoBiota 31: 63-86

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.31.10038

Authors: Darragh J. Woodford, David M. Richardson, Hugh J. MacIsaac, Nicholas E. Mandrak, Brian W. van Wilgen, John R. U. Wilson, Olaf L. F. Weyl

Abstract: The Anthropocene Epoch is characterized by novel and increasingly complex dependencies between the environment and human civilization, with many challenges of biodiversity management emerging as wicked problems. Problems arising from the management of biological invasions can be either tame (with simple or obvious solutions) or wicked, where difficulty in appropriately defining the problem can make complete solutions impossible to find. We review four case studies that reflect the main goals in the management of biological invasions – prevention, eradication, and impact reduction – assessing the drivers and extent of wickedness in each. We find that a disconnect between the perception and reality of how wicked a problem is can profoundly influence the likelihood of successful management. For example, managing species introductions can be wicked, but shifting from species-focused to vector-focused risk management can greatly reduce the complexity, making it a tame problem. The scope and scale of the overall management goal will also dictate the wickedness of the problem and the achievability of management solutions (cf. eradication and ecosystem restoration). Finally, managing species that have both positive and negative impacts requires engagement with all stakeholders and scenario-based planning. Effective management of invasions requires either recognizing unavoidable wickedness, or circumventing it by seeking alternative management perspectives.

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Review Article Wed, 14 Sep 2016 12:46:37 +0300
Biological invasions and natural colonisations are different – the need for invasion science https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/9185/ NeoBiota 31: 87-98

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.31.9185

Authors: John R. U. Wilson, Pablo García-Díaz, Phillip Cassey, David M. Richardson, Petr Pyšek, Tim M. Blackburn

Abstract: In a recent Discussion Paper, Hoffmann and Courchamp (2016) posed the question: are biological invasions and natural colonisations that different? This apparently simple question resonates at the core of the biological study of human-induced global change, and we strongly believe that the answer is yes: biological invasions and natural colonisations differ in processes and mechanisms in ways that are crucial for science, management, and policy. Invasion biology has, over time, developed into the broader transdisciplinary field of invasion science. At the heart of invasion science is the realisation that biological invasions are not just a biological phenomenon: the human dimension of invasions is a fundamental component in the social-ecological systems in which invasions need to be understood and managed.

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Discussion Paper Wed, 14 Sep 2016 11:53:16 +0300
When similarities matter more than differences: a reply to Wilson et al. https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/10290/ NeoBiota 31: 99-104

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.31.10290

Authors: Benjamin D. Hoffmann, Franck Courchamp

Abstract: In our recent Discussion paper, we presented our view that the only real distinction between biological invasions and natural colonisations is the human element. We agree that invasion science is a very important science, not only to better understand the role that human mediation plays for colonisation, but also for many other science fields. We agree with all invasion researchers that the human influence can result in spectacular differences, including in rates of species movement, rates of successful colonisation, the particular species being moved, the biogeography of dispersal pathways and rates of any resulting ecological disturbance and biodiversity loss. Our deep point is that that species dispersed by human-mediation or natural colonisation are all subject to the same basic laws and rules of ecology, identical to many other phenomenon that occur naturally and can be greatly influenced by people. The human dimension is merely a mechanistic distinction, albeit important because it exposes insights about the colonisation process that cannot be seen by the study of natural colonisations alone. We provide 10 hypotheses that can be scientifically tested to determine whether biological invasions and natural colonisations are two separate processes or the same process being influenced by different mechanisms.

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Commentary Wed, 14 Sep 2016 02:14:27 +0300
Biological invasions and natural colonisations: are they that different? https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/6959/ NeoBiota 29: 1-14

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.29.6959

Authors: Benjamin D. Hoffmann, Franck Courchamp

Abstract: We argue that human-mediated invasions are part of the spectrum of species movements, not a unique phenomenon, because species self-dispersing into novel environments are subject to the same barriers of survival, reproduction, dispersal and further range expansion as those assisted by people. Species changing their distributions by human-mediated and non-human mediated modes should be of identical scientific interest to invasion ecology and ecology. Distinctions between human-mediated invasions and natural colonisations are very valid for management and policy, but we argue that these are value-laden distinctions and not necessarily an appropriate division for science, which instead should focus on distinctions based on processes and mechanisms. We propose an all-encompassing framework of species range expansion. This does not detract from the importance of invasion biology as a discipline, but instead will help bring together research being conducted on multiple taxa, and by multiple disciplines, including epidemiology, that are often focused on an identical phenomenon: colonisation.

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Discussion Paper Wed, 16 Mar 2016 10:09:20 +0200
Site-specific temporal and spatial validation of a generic plant pest forecast system with observations of Bactrocera dorsalis (oriental fruit fly) https://neobiota.pensoft.net/article/5177/ NeoBiota 27: 37-67

DOI: 10.3897/neobiota.27.5177

Authors: Seung Cheon Hong, Roger Magarey, Daniel M. Borchert, Roger I. Vargas, Steven Souder

Abstract: This study introduces a simple generic model, the Generic Pest Forecast System (GPFS), for simulating the relative populations of non-indigenous arthropod pests in space and time. The model was designed to calculate the population index or relative population using hourly weather data as influenced by developmental rate, high and low temperature mortalities and wet soil moisture mortality. Each module contains biological parameters derived from controlled experiments. The hourly weather data used for the model inputs were obtained from the National Center of Environmental Prediction Climate Forecast System Reanalysis (NCEP-CFSR) at a 38 km spatial resolution. A combination of spatial and site-specific temporal data was used to validate the GPFS models. The oriental fruit fly, Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel), was selected as a case study for this research because it is climatically driven and a major pest of fruit production. Results from the GPFS model were compared with field B. dorsalis survey data in three locations: 1) Bangalore, India; 2) Hawaii, USA; and 3) Wuhan, China. The GPFS captured the initial outbreaks and major population peaks of B. dorsalis reasonably well, although agreement varied between sites. An index of agreement test indicated that GPFS model simulations matched with field B. dorsalis observation data with a range between 0.50 and 0.94 (1.0 as a perfect match). Of the three locations, Wuhan showed the highest match between the observed and simulated B. dorsalis populations, with indices of agreement of 0.85. The site-specific temporal comparisons implied that the GPFS model is informative for prediction of relative abundance. Spatial results from the GPFS model were also compared with 161 published observations of B. dorsalis distribution, mostly from East Asia. Since parameters for pupal overwintering and survival were unknown from the literature, these were inferred from the distribution data. The study showed that GPFS has promise for estimating suitable areas for B. dorsalis establishment and potentially other non-indigenous pests. It is concluded that calibrating prediction models with both spatial and site-specific temporal data may provide more robust and reliable results than validations with either data set alone.

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Research Article Tue, 15 Sep 2015 09:53:09 +0300