Stakeholders Perceptions of Non-indigenous Freshwater Fish Species: A Case Study from a Mediterranean Biodiversity Hotspot.

ABSTRACT

Even though the ecological impacts of invasive alien species (IAS) have been well studied, social aspects of IAS in freshwater ecosystems are still poorly explored. This study aimed to assess the perceptions associated with non-indigenous freshwater fish species (NIFS) among environmental-related professional and non-professional stakeholders in a Mediterranean country that displays high levels of fish species endemism, by using a questionnaire survey approach. Overall, 203 individuals participated, from which, the majority (n = 144) were related to environmental sciences. Most of the respondents perceived NIFS to be a threat of national importance, possibly attributed to the emotional effect of the term non-indigenous (conceived as intruder). However, NIFS were indicated as the least important threat affecting aquatic ecosystems when compared with other pressures. This contrasting perception could be explained by the fact that broad-scale impacts (i.e., climate change) exert stronger reactions compared to NIFS. Interestingly, non-professionals were more successful in identifying NIFS and native species compared to professionals, however both indicated low overall identification success. The majority of the respondents, both professionals and non-professionals, considered that (a) the official authorities do not implement actions for NIFS management, (b) government spending should be increased to manage NIFS even if it should be reduced for other needs, and (c) early detection is the best way to manage NIFS. The establishment of a nationwide network consisting of all related stakeholders on NIFS issues, aiming to public awareness and preventive management actions to limit the spread and impacts of NIFS should be set as a priority.