Effects of introduced marine species on biodiversity and ecosystem functions in the Wadden Sea


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andreas.waser [ at ] awi.de

Abstract

More than one hundred introduced alien species have established below high tide level in the trilateral Wadden Sea, while none of the residents was expelled in return. As a net result, species and biogenic habitat diversity have increased. This contrasts with the popular generalization that species introductions are a major threat to native biodiversity. We suggest, time is ripe to reconsider our attitude towards the impacts of alien species on the ecological web in the Wadden Sea. We discuss underlying reasons for the disparity with terrestrial habitats such as on barrier islands. We recommend acknowledging the high integrative capacity of the Wadden Sea ecosystem, appreciating gains in biodiversity and in adaptive abilities for adjusting to climate warming, accepting established immigrants as new residents, and overcoming the outdated dichotomy between pristine and novel nature.



Item Type
Conference (Keynote)
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Helmholtz Cross Cutting Activity (2021-2027)
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Publication Status
Published
Event Details
15th International Scientific Wadden Sea Symposium, 30 Nov 2021 - 02 Dec 2021, Online.
Eprint ID
55074
Cite as
Reise, K. , Lackschewitz, D. , Buschbaum, C. , Waser, A. M. , Wegner, M. and Thieltges, D. W. (2021): Effects of introduced marine species on biodiversity and ecosystem functions in the Wadden Sea , 15th International Scientific Wadden Sea Symposium, Online, 30 November 2021 - 2 December 2021 .


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