Alien Species in Our Seas

The Mediterranean Sea is becoming increasingly populated by alien species introduced through human activities such as maritime shipping, aquaculture, and the aquarium trade, as well as through artificial waterways like the Suez Canal. It is also receiving species that are expanding their natural range and entering through natural corridors such as the Strait of Gibraltar. Climate change and environmental alterations facilitate the establishment of these new species, some of which can become invasive and cause significant harm to the environment, the economy, and human health.

For this reason, it is essential to monitor and promptly report their presence. In this context, the scientific community promotes the crucial role of citizen science—the active and voluntary involvement of the public in data collection. Citizen science helps researchers gain a better understanding of ecological phenomena while also bringing science closer to the wider public.

This booklet has been developed to help marine professionals and sea enthusiasts identify the new species that may be observed or caught in our seas, with particular attention to those that pose a risk to human health because they are toxic if consumed, capable of causing stings, or venomous upon contact.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU SPOT OR CATCH ONE

Take a photograph or video of the specimen.
Record the location of the sighting or capture (preferably including GPS coordinates).
Note the characteristics of the surrounding environment and any other observations that may be useful, such as the type of seabed, depth, presence of other organisms, unusual conditions, signs of pollution, or other relevant details.
Whenever possible, preserve the specimen by freezing it
Inform ISPRA to: alien@isprambiente.it