Resurgence of massive occurrence of the invasive polychaete Ficopomatus enigmaticus (Fauvel, 1923) in the Caspian Sea.

This article discusses the resurgence of the invasive polychaete species Ficopomatus enigmaticus in the Caspian Sea. The Caspian Sea has been affected by natural and human activities, resulting in the introduction of non-native species. F. enigmaticus, which was introduced from the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov in the mid-20th century, is one of eight polychaete species found in the Caspian Sea. The presence of F. enigmaticus has ecological and economic impacts, as it can alter habitats and food webs. The study reports the first resurgence of F. enigmaticus in the southern coasts of the Caspian Sea, specifically in the Anzali Port and Caspian Port areas. The research collected samples from various stations to study the dynamics of the Caspian Sea ecosystem. The study found that F. enigmaticus established aggregations in the marina of Caspian Port, but not in Anzali port. Over time, the density of F. enigmaticus increased in the marina, covering the canal walls. The document also mentions the impact of F. enigmaticus on the local ecology, including its contribution to water purification and potential safety hazards for recreational users. The changing Caspian environment, such as declining sea levels, may create opportunities for new invasions of alien species like F. enigmaticus. [Extracted from the article]