Social networks allow early detection of non indigenous species

Abstract

The red drum Sciaenops ocellatus is a large demersal fish that represents one of the top predators in estuarine environments of its native range. This species is commonly reared in aquaculture facilities, and it has already been reported as non indigenous from several countries. Here we report its first sighting in Italian waters, as well as the second documented occurrence for the Mediterranean Sea. The individual was landed in southern Sicily by artisanal fishery and this unusual observation was immediately shared on Facebook. The importance of considering social networks as tools for NIS detection is briefly discussed in light of the recognized difficulties to properly track biological introductions in the marine environment.