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Robinson, T. B.; Griffiths, C. L.; McQuaid, C. D.; Rius, M. (2005). Marine alien species of South Africa — status and impacts. African Journal of Marine Science 2005. 27(1): 297-306.
42451
Robinson, T. B.; Griffiths, C. L.; McQuaid, C. D.; Rius, M.
2005
Marine alien species of South Africa — status and impacts
African Journal of Marine Science 2005
27(1): 297-306
Publication
Available for editors [request]
The current status of marine alien species along the
South African coast is reviewed and the ecological and
economic impacts of these invasions are discussed. In
all, 10 confirmed extant alien and 22 cryptogenic species
are recorded from the region. All 10 alien species support
well-established populations and the majority of these
remain restricted in distribution to sheltered bays,
estuaries and harbours. Only one species, the Mediterranean
mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis, has spread
extensively along the coast and caused significant ecological
impacts. These include the competitive displacement
of indigenous species and a dramatic increase in
intertidal mussel biomass. These changes have also
increased available habitat for many infaunal species
and resulted in enhanced food supply for intertidal predators.
Considerable economic benefits have also resulted
from this invasion because M. galloprovincialis forms
the basis of the South African mussel culture industry.
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South Africa (country) for Carcinus aestuarii Nardo, 1847
South Africa (country) for Pilumnus hirsutus Stimpson, 1858
South Africa (country) for Pilumnus hirsutus Stimpson, 1858