Significant northern range extension of the non-native batillariid Zeacumantus subcarinatus in Australia, with observations of new habitat usage

Abstract

The New Zealand batillariid gastropod Zeacumantus subcarinatus has been recorded as an invasive species in Australia since at least 1924, with populations established in rocky shore habitats at multiple locations in Greater Sydney. We observed a large population (10,000+ individuals) of Z. subcarinatus at an estuarine tidal mudflat on the New South Wales mid-north coast, representing a ~ 250 km northern range extension, and the first known record of this species in a sheltered, muddy habitat in Australia. We discuss the possible establishment means of this new population.