Invasive species are mainly known for their detrimental effects on ecosystems and infrastructures, and their associated economic impacts. Unsurprisingly, research has focused for several decades on fundamental aspects of non-indigenous species ecology and dynamics, management, and conservation of native species. However, since the seminal work of Elton in 1958, Biological Invasions research progressed vigorously while embracing many distinct disciplines (e.g., Citizen Science, Economy, Policy). So, we are much better prepared to tackle the challenges posed by non-indigenous species notwithstanding the magnitude of this global problem. Marine and estuarine ecosystems are among the least studied ecosystems by Biological Invasion scientists. Additionally, these ecosystems face disturbances from many other stressors (e.g., climate change, ocean acidification, shoreline disruption, pollution, river flow regularization) that create opportunities to exacerbate the problems posed by non-indigenous species.
Biological Invasions aggregates multidisciplinary, interdisciplinary, and transdisciplinary research delivered by a vibrant and innovative community of scientists. Yet, it has become difficult to find one outlet that delivers exceptional contributions showcasing the multiple subjects that support the research and management of Biological Invasions in marine and estuarine ecosystems. Therefore, this Research Topic intends to feature diverse and high-quality works that either focus on a particular species or that embrace a multi-, inter-, or transdisciplinary approach to quantify and tackle the problems that non-indigenous species pose per se, or in tandem with other stressors, to ecosystems and society.
We encourage the submission of seven types of articles, namely: Original Research; Hypothesis and Theory; Community Case Studies; Methods; Policy Briefs; Policy and Practice Reviews; Reviews. For more information on these article types please consult https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/marine-science#article-types.
We seek contributions that showcase the diversity of Biological Invasions studies in marine and estuarine ecosystems and embracing any type of organisms. Studies that connect Biological Invasions with other environmental stressors or interdisciplinary studies will be highly regarded.
Next, we present a list of subjects (in alphabetical order) that intertwine with Biological Invasions and fit into this Research Topic: Blue Economy; Citizen Science; Climate Change; Conservation; Cryptic Invasions; Ecology; Ecological and Economical Impacts; Ecosystem Functioning; Evolution; Genetics and Phylogeography; Invasion Dynamics (Introduction, Establishment, and Spread); Management and Policy; Monitoring; New Records; Risk Assessment; Sociology; Surveillance.
Please note that given the broad scope of this Research Topic, if your work is related to the Mediterranean Sea and adjoining seas, please directly submit your manuscript to this Research Topic instead:
"Biological Invasions in the Mediterranean Sea".