Evaluation of the potential establishment of black-striped pipefish transferred by cultural drivers

Abstract

ABSTRACT Introduction of non-native species is considered a grave threat for global biodiversity. It can negatively affect native biota and cause serious socioeconomic losses. In this study, we confirmed the existence of black-striped pipefish (Syngnathus abaster) in the freshwater Tbilisi Reservoir (the middle Kura Drainage), which had been translocated from the Black Sea Basin. The introduction was in part a result of the local name of the target freshwater reservoir called the “Tbilisi Sea,” which implied a connection with the Black Sea for local hobbyists. S. abaster is expanding its range with or without human help, and introduction of this species is expected in other regions. To address this problem, we made a species distribution model using MaxEnt software to test the species environmental suitability around the globe. Lowland inland waterbodies and shorelines in temperate, Mediterranean, and arid climate zones were indicated as localities where this fish could survive if released. The risk of introduction currently seems low, but exploitation of S. abaster for ornamental purposes due to expanding local and international pet trade increases the likelihood of future releases. For this reason, it is important to verify new cases of successful establishment of this species.