Question

Select three invasive marine species in the environment that has caused a major shift in the marine community structure? Describe characteristics that have allowed them to be successful invaders and describe characteristics changes in community structure and ecosystem function that have occurred, and ways in which governments/environmental organizations are attempting to remedy the problem.

Answer 1

• The three invasive marine species caused a major shift in the marine community are Asterias amurensis, Caulerpa taxifolia and Mnemiopsis leidyi.
• The charecters that made them so invasive are higher adaptability, high reproduction and lack of predators.
• Asterias has been found to be over 100 millions of individuals covering around 1500 sq kms.Caulerpa is found to be covering over 97% area in the locality Carcinus is blamed for the collapse of bivalve shell fishery in the vicinity.Apart from this they show effect on human health, economy and social issues.
• Law of the sea conservation article states that every state shall steps to control, reduce and eradicate invasion either accidentally or intentionally. IUCN passed the guidelines for prevention of loss to biodiversity due to alien specie International Health Regulatory body passed the FAO code to conduct responsible fisheries.