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Transport pathways shape the biogeography of alien freshwater fishes in Australia

Authors :
Gavin L. Butler
Rob Freeman
Stephen J. Beatty
Michael P. Hammer
Jason D. Thiem
Peter J. Unmack
Nick S. Whiterod
SA Hardie
Tarmo A. Raadik
Bradley James Pusey
Phillip Cassey
Mark Lintermans
Mark J. Kennard
David L. Morgan
Pablo García-Díaz
Richard P. Duncan
Adam Kerezsy
Source :
Diversity and Distributions. 24:1405-1415
Publication Year :
2018
Publisher :
Wiley, 2018.

Abstract

Aim Changing preferences regarding which species humans have transported to new regions can have major consequences for the potential distribution of alien taxa, but the mechanisms shaping these patterns are poorly understood. We assessed the extent to which changes in human preferences for transporting and introducing alien freshwater fishes have altered their biogeography. Location Australia. Methods We compiled an up‐to‐date database of alien freshwater fishes established in drainages in Australia before and after the number of established alien fish species doubled (pre‐1970 and post‐1970, respectively). Using metacommunity models, we analysed the influence of species traits and drainage features on the distribution of alien fishes that established pre‐ and post‐1970. Results Alien fishes in Australia were introduced via four main transport pathways: acclimatization, aquaculture, biocontrol and ornamental trade. The relative importance of each pathway changed substantially between the two periods, accompanied by changes in the distribution of alien fishes and the variables predicting their distribution. Pre‐1970, most species (64%) were introduced by acclimatization societies for purposes such as angling and biocontrol, and these fish have established in inland drainages more heavily impacted by human activities. In contrast, most of the post‐1970 introductions (69%) were ornamental fishes, with most species established in small, north‐eastern, tropical and subtropical coastal drainages. Main conclusions Substantial changes in introduction preferences and transport pathways over time have altered both the patterns and underlying processes shaping the biogeography of alien fishes in Australia. Our findings highlight the need for caution when using historical data to infer potential future distributions of alien species. The continuing spread of alien species means traditional biogeographical units may no longer be identifiable in the foreseeable future.

Details

ISSN :
14724642 and 13669516
Volume :
24
Database :
OpenAIRE
Journal :
Diversity and Distributions
Accession number :
edsair.doi...........d4d0a3efe70cd2fc09dee045d7bf57cd
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1111/ddi.12777