Author(s): Taklis Christos

Abstract: Oculina patagonica, a scleractinian coral species originally from the South Atlantic, has increasingly established itself in the Mediterranean Sea, where it is considered invasive. This study documents the first confirmed record of O. patagonica in the Pagasetic Gulf, near Volos, Greece, and compiles data on its broader expansion across Greek waters. The species was identified at a depth of 2 meters on rocky substrate, marking a new distribution point for the coral in Greece. Public expansion records from citizen science platforms and scientific reports indicate that the species has progressively spread across Greece, facilitated by rising sea temperatures and anthropogenic activities such as shipping and coastal development. Our findings suggest that O. patagonica could pose a significant threat to local marine biodiversity by outcompeting native benthic species and altering ecosystem dynamics. As its range continues to expand, ongoing monitoring and management strategies are critical to mitigate its ecological impact. This study highlights the need for continued research on the species distribution and its potential effects on Mediterranean marine ecosystems.

DOI: 10.22271/fish.2024.v12.i6a.2990

Pages: 24-27  |  222 Views  57 Downloads

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