Abstract
Abstract In the present study, the temporal dynamics of zooplankton community of the North West Adriatic Sea (coastal area of Emilia-Romagna region, Italy) was monitored over 12 years. The distribution and abundance of zooplankton species were investigated in relation to physical and biological parameters (temperature, salinity, dissolved oxygen and chlorophyll-a). Since November 2015 the non-indigenous copepod Pseudodiaptomus marinus, Sato, 1913 has been observed in the study area. During summer 2016, the American comb jelly Mnemiopsis leidyi, A. Agassiz, 1865 was recorded there for the first time and its presence was continuously monitored since that time (weekly observations from August 2016 to December 2017). Our study confirmed that the environmental conditions of the study area were suitable for M. leidyi growth. In addition, due to the combined effects of temperature, salinity and food availability M. leidyi was able to survive during winter months. Particular attention was then given to zooplankton abundance and community changes between two time periods: before and after M. leidyi arrival. Statistical analysis revealed significant differences in zooplankton abundance between the two time periods and a decrease in species diversity and evenness was observed during summer 2016.
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