First occurrence of the invasive jellyfish Phyllorhiza punctata in the Dominican Republic: seasonal trend and invasion in the Atlantic Ocean

Abstract

The invasive, white-spotted jellyfish Phyllorhiza punctata is reported from the Dominican Republic for the first time, representing a significant range expansion in the Caribbean region. A specimen was sighted and photographically documented in Gina’s Bay, Miches on 20 February, 2024. We compiled 222 existing records of P. punctata in the Caribbean Sea and Gulf of Mexico between 1965 and 2023, revealing a distinct seasonal pattern with most observations occurring from May to October (summer season). The earliest record of P. punctata in the Atlantic dates back to 1940, but sightings became more frequent starting in the 1990s. The introduction and spread of this Indo-Pacific species is attributed to vectors like ballast water discharge, aquarium releases, and oil rig movements. Once established, P. punctata can rapidly proliferate due to its life cycle involving asexually produced medusae. The presence of this invasive jellyfish can potentially impact native species through competition and predation on fish and crustacean larvae, as well as impact fisheries through gear entanglement and pose risks to human activities from stinging incidents. Continuous monitoring and close regional collaboration are needed to evaluate the distribution, abundance, and ecological impacts of this invasive species and, furthermore, to develop appropriate management strategies to mitigate the possible effects of this invader in the Dominican Republic and the Caribbean region.