Curbing the major and growing threats from invasive alien species is urgent and achievable.

Although invasive alien species have long been recognized as a major threat to nature and people, until now there has been no comprehensive global review of the status, trends, drivers, impacts, management and governance challenges of biological invasions. The Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) Thematic Assessment Report on Invasive Alien Species and Their Control (hereafter 'IPBES invasive alien species assessment') drew on more than 13,000 scientific publications and reports in 15 languages as well as Indigenous and local knowledge on all taxa, ecosystems and regions across the globe. Therefore, it provides unequivocal evidence of the major and growing threat of invasive alien species alongside ambitious but realistic approaches to manage biological invasions. The extent of the threat and impacts has been recognized by the 143 member states of IPBES who approved the summary for policymakers of this assessment. Here, the authors of the IPBES assessment outline the main findings of the IPBES invasive alien species assessment and highlight the urgency to act now.

Including a diverse set of voices to address biological invasions.

Inclusivity is fundamental to progress in understanding and addressing the global phenomena of biological invasions because inclusivity fosters a breadth of perspectives, knowledge, and solutions. Here, we report on how the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) assessment on invasive alien species (IAS) prioritized inclusivity, the benefits of this approach, and the remaining challenges.

Fouling bryozoans in Argentine harbours (Southwest Atlantic): new records and the description of a new species.

Non-indigenous bryozoans are frequent components of biofouling assemblages in harbour environments worldwide. We performed a survey of artificial hard substrates in six harbours spanning 16 degrees of latitude along the coast of Argentina, from Ingeniero White (38º47' S) to Ushuaia (54º48' S). Microeciella argentina n. sp., distributed in warm-temperate waters of northern Patagonia and Buenos Aires Province, is described. The non-indigenous species (NIS) Callopora dumerilii, Smittoidea spinigera and Stephanollona boreopacifica are recorded here for the first time in the Southwest Atlantic. Their occurrence in fouling assemblages of warm-temperate harbours and their previous absence in these areas suggest that they probably arrived in Argentina by international shipping traffic. Callopora dumerilii is native to Europe and the northeast Atlantic. Smittoidea spinigera and Stephanollona boreopacifica are native to China and Korea, respectively. The morphological differences between S. spinigera and the Californian species S. prolifera, which is invading European harbours in the North Sea, are discussed. Bugula neritina, Bugulina flabellata, Cryptosula pallasiana and Fenestrulina delicia, common in harbours of Buenos Aires Province, are here recorded in Patagonia, highlighting the importance of regional shipping traffic to secondary spread of NIS. Arachnidium fibrosum, Buskia socialis, Anguinella palmata, Aetea cultrata, Bicellariella edentata and Exochella moyanoi, previously known from Brazil, and Hippothoa divaricata, are here recorded in Argentina. This study shows that warm-temperate harbours in Buenos Aires Province and northern Patagonia are particularly prone to the introduction of non-indigenous bryozoans.

Ecological and environmental context shape the differential effects of a facilitator in its native and invaded ranges.

Invasive species often exhibit disproportionately strong negative effects in their introduced range compared to their native range, and much research has been devoted to understanding the role of shared evolutionary history, or lack thereof, in driving these differences. Less studied is whether introduced species, particularly those that are important as facilitators in their native range, have persistent positive effects in their invaded range despite a lack of a shared evolutionary history with the invaded community. Here, we manipulated the density of a habitat-forming facilitator, the high intertidal acorn barnacle Balanus glandula, factorially with herbivore density in its native range (Bluestone Point, British Columbia, Canada) and invaded range (Punta Ameghino, Chubut Province, Argentina) to determine how this facilitator differentially affects associated species at these two locations. Given that high intertidal species at Punta Ameghino (PA) are evolutionarily naïve to barnacles, we predicted that the positive effects of B. glandula at PA would be absent or weak compared to those at Bluestone Point (BP). However, we found that B. glandula had an equally positive effect on herbivore biomass at PA compared to BP, possibly because the moisture-retaining properties of barnacle bed habitats are particularly important in seasonally dry Patagonia. Barnacle presence indirectly decreased ephemeral algal cover at BP by increasing grazer pressure, but barnacles instead facilitated ephemeral algae at PA. In contrast, B. glandula increased perennial algal cover at BP, but generally decreased perennial algal cover at PA, likely due to differences in dominant algal morphology. Though our experiment was limited to one location on each continent, our results suggest that shared evolutionary history may not be a prerequisite for strong facilitation to occur, but rather that the nature and strength of novel species interactions are determined by the traits of associated species and the environment in which they occur.

Early detection of marine invasive species following the deployment of an artificial reef: Integrating tools to assist the decision-making process.

Early detection and rapid response plans are a set of principles to reduce the establishment, spread and impact of invasive species and it is a critical step in management in marine ecosystems. Two potentially invasive ascidians attached to the hull of a recently sunk fishing vessel were early detected in Patagonia. With the aim of assisting in the management decision-making process during the early steps of a rapid response, we conducted several analyses through different approaches. First, we identified the species through classic taxonomical and genetic analyses. Then, we evaluated the regional and international shipping connectivity to study potential donor regions and finally, we used species distribution models (SDMs) to predict the potential distribution of these species. The potentially invasive ascidians were identified as Styela clava and Styela plicata, and this is the first record for both species in the Nuevo gulf, Patagonia Argentina. Both species have a widespread distribution around the world with strong ecological and economic impacts documented. Shipping traffic analysis suggested that S. plicata could have arrived by secondary spread from regional ports, while the arrival of S. clava was likely to be associated with international shipping traffic. Furthermore, the SDM predicted that S. clava has suitable coastal areas along the entire Southwestern Atlantic shoreline, where it is currently absent. On the contrary, the SDM predicted that further southward spread of S. plicata is unlikely, being limited by the minimum annual temperature. We discussed the different approaches, tools, and expertise integrated in this work in the light of the decision-making process for the early detection of marine invasive species in the Southwestern Atlantic. Moreover, we call attention to the increased creation of artificial habitats through the intentional sinking of ships and the potential consequences of these actions in the conservation of marine ecosystems.

Trends in the detection of aquatic non-indigenous species across global marine, estuarine and freshwater ecosystems: A 50-year perspective.

Aim: The introduction of aquatic non-indigenous species (ANS) has become a major driver for global changes in species biogeography. We examined spatial patterns and temporal trends of ANS detections since 1965 to inform conservation policy and management. Location: Global. Methods: We assembled an extensive dataset of first records of detection of ANS (1965-2015) across 49 aquatic ecosystems, including the (a) year of first collection, (b) population status and (c) potential pathway(s) of introduction. Data were analysed at global and regional levels to assess patterns of detection rate, richness and transport pathways. Results: An annual mean of 43 (±16 SD) primary detections of ANS occurred-one new detection every 8.4 days for 50 years. The global rate of detections was relatively stable during 1965-1995, but increased rapidly after this time, peaking at roughly 66 primary detections per year during 2005-2010 and then declining marginally. Detection rates were variable within and across regions through time. Arthropods, molluscs and fishes were the most frequently reported ANS. Most ANS were likely introduced as stowaways in ships' ballast water or biofouling, although direct evidence is typically absent. Main conclusions: This synthesis highlights the magnitude of recent ANS detections, yet almost certainly represents an underestimate as many ANS go unreported due to limited search effort and diminishing taxonomic expertise. Temporal rates of detection are also confounded by reporting lags, likely contributing to the lower detection rate observed in recent years. There is a critical need to implement standardized, repeated methods across regions and taxa to improve the quality of global-scale comparisons and sustain core measures over longer time-scales. It will be fundamental to fill in knowledge gaps given that invasion data representing broad regions of the world's oceans are not yet readily available and to maintain knowledge pipelines for adaptive management.

Supporting Spartina: Interdisciplinary perspective shows Spartina as a distinct solid genus.

In 2014, a DNA-based phylogenetic study confirming the paraphyly of the grass subtribe Sporobolinae proposed the creation of a large monophyletic genus Sporobolus, including (among others) species previously included in the genera Spartina, Calamovilfa, and Sporobolus. Spartina species have contributed substantially (and continue contributing) to our knowledge in multiple disciplines, including ecology, evolutionary biology, molecular biology, biogeography, experimental ecology, biological invasions, environmental management, restoration ecology, history, economics, and sociology. There is no rationale so compelling to subsume the name Spartina as a subgenus that could rival the striking, global iconic history and use of the name Spartina for over 200 yr. We do not agree with the subjective arguments underlying the proposal to change Spartina to Sporobolus. We understand the importance of both the objective phylogenetic insights and of the subjective formalized nomenclature and hope that by opening this debate we will encourage positive feedback that will strengthen taxonomic decisions with an interdisciplinary perspective. We consider that the strongly distinct, monophyletic clade Spartina should simply and efficiently be treated as the genus Spartina.

First detection of Ostreid herpesvirus 1 in wild Crassostrea gigas in Argentina.

Ostreid herpesvirus 1 (OsHV-1) is a DNA virus of the genus Ostreavirus (Malacoherpesviridae family, Herpesvirales order). Worldwide, OsHV-1 and its microvariants have been associated with increased mortality of Pacific oysters, Crassostrea gigas. Adult asymptomatic oysters also have shown a high prevalence of viral infection. As a consequence, surveillance is needed to better describe OsHV-1 diversity, pathogenicity, clinical signs, and geographical distribution. We examined Crassostrea gigas sampled in October 2017 from the inner zone of the Bahía Blanca Estuary, Argentina, and found that 8 of 30 specimens (26.7%) presented macroscopic lesions in mantle tissues. Histological analysis revealed abnormal presentation of mantle epithelial cells and connective tissues. Conventional and real-time PCR conducted on the oyster samples revealed 70% to be positive for presence of OsHV-1 DNA. The nucleotide sequence of the amplicon obtained from one sample using the primer pair IA1/IA2 (targeting ORF 42/43) was 99% identical to OsHV-1 reference as well as µVar strains B and A (KY271630, KY242785.1), sequenced from France and Ireland. This finding represents the first detection of OsHV-1 DNA in a wild population of C. gigas in Argentina in association with gross mantle lesions.

Pycnogonida (Arthropoda) from Uruguayan waters (Southwest Atlantic): annotated checklist and biogeographic considerations.

Records of pycnogonids from Uruguayan waters (south-western Atlantic) include 26 species cited from precise locations, and at least five other species based on unconfirmed records. Nearly half of the species in that fauna belong to the genus Nymphon (12 spp.). Most species (22) come from deep-water and were recorded and described by C. A. Child. Of these, at least twelve species have an extended Antarctic and Subantarctic distribution, showing the influence of these cold waters in the area; three others have a wide deep-sea distribution pattern. Five species are known only from the lower slope and abyssal basin off La plata river: Mimipallene Atlantis and four species of Nymphon. Records from coastal and shelf areas (four species) are poorly documented and should be the focus of future research. Of these, Colossendeis geoffroyi is considered endemic in the Southwest Atlantic between 34ºS and 40ºS, but presents clear Antarctic affinities. A small-sized species living in shallow waters, Pycnogonum cessaci, is here considered as cryptogenic.

Marine fouling invasions in ports of Patagonia (Argentina) with implications for legislation and monitoring programs.

Ports are a key factor in the understanding and solving of most problems associated with marine invasive species across regional and global scales. Yet many regions with active ports remain understudied. The aim of this work was to (a) identify and quantify the marine fouling organisms in all Patagonian ports of Argentina classifying them as native, exotic or cryptogenic species through a rapid assessment survey and experimental studies, (b) survey the environmental and anthropogenic variables of these ports and (c) analyze and discuss these results in the light of the South America context for the study of marine invasive species, legislation and commerce. We found 247 fouling species, including 17 introduced, one of which is a new record for the region, and other 15 species currently considered cryptogenic species that will need further attention to clarify their status. The analysis of mobile and sessile taxa, together with the environmental variables measured in this study and the port movement, allow us to discuss individual ports' vulnerability to future introductions. This is the first large scale study performed for this region on this topic, and it will help in developing monitoring programs and early detection plans to minimize new species introductions along the marine coastline of southern South America.

Global environmental changes: setting priorities for Latin American coastal habitats.

As the effects of the Global Climate Changes on the costal regions of Central and South Americas advance, there is proportionally little research being made to understand such impacts. This commentary puts forward a series of propositions of strategies to improve performance of Central and South American science and policy making in order to cope with the future impacts of the Global Climate Changes in their coastal habitats.

Taxonomía de ineertebrados marinos: necesidades en latinoamérica / Marine invertebaate taxonomy: needs in latin america / Taxonomia d inveertebrados marinhos: necessidades na américa latnna

La taxonomía es una disciplina fundamental en la biología y es indispensable para la determinación de especies indicadoras o exóticas y para actividades de monitoreo. Para su desarrollo, se requiere de colecciones de historia natural y herbarios que documenten la biodiversidad regional. Por la gran biodiversidad del planeta, la taxonomía merece la misma atención que los programas del cambio climático. Los resultados de varias reuniones internacionales, desde la Convención sobre Diversidad Biológica de 1992, resaltaron la necesidad de mejorar el respaldo gubernamental para esta disciplina. Una de las principales conclusiones alcanzadas fue establecer una iniciativa global para la taxonomía en 1998. Los países se comprometieron a establecer programas nacionales pero como no se avanzó, la Conferencia de las Partes consideró urgente su implementación en 2006. En el presente trabajo se revisan los problemas y avances principales, y se propone una ruta crítica para organizar programas en Latinoamérica, con énfasis en los invertebrados marinos. Se plantea que es necesario que los taxónomos y responsables de colecciones se organicen, mejoren sus relaciones con los tomadores de decisiones y preparen una iniciativa nacional, la cual debe incluir un programa de contratación progresiva para mantener y diversificar el conocimiento de la biota marina. Al mismo tiempo, se enfatiza que la investigación taxonómica debe incorporar métodos y enfoques bioinformáticas y moleculares, y ser considerada como ciencia planetaria.

Taxonomy is a fundamental discipline of biology and it is indispensable for the identification of species, either indicator ones or exotic, and for monitoring activities. To achieve its potential, this discipline requires the establishment of natural history collections and herbaria that document local and regional biodiversity. Because of the high levels of global biodiversity, taxonomy deserves the same attention as the climate change programs. Several international meetings, since the Convention on Biological Diversity in 1992, have pointed out the need to imcrease government support for taxonomy. One of the main conclusions was to establish a Global Taxonomy Initiative (GTI) in 1998. Governments failed to establish national programs for taxonomy; thus in 2006 the Conference of the Parties stressed again the urgency of their implementation. This review lists the problems faced and main progress achieved by the GTI and proposes a road map for Latin America with an emphasis on marine invertebrates. It is recommended that taxonomists and collection managers team together, improve their relationships with policy makers and funding science agencies, and prepare national initiatives. These initiatives should include a stepwise hiring program in order to improve and diversify the knowledge of the marine biota. At the same time, taxonomic research should involve state of the art bioinformatics and molecular tools, and become a global science.

A taxonomia é uma disciplina fundamental na biologia e é indispensável para a determinação de espécies indicadoras ou exóticas e para atividades de monitoração. Para seu desenvolvimento, se requer de coleções de historia natural e herbários que documentem a biodiversidade regional. Pela grande biodiversidade do planeta, a taxonomia merece a mesma atenção que os programas de mudança climática. Os resultados de varias reuniões internacionais, desde a Convenção sobre Diversidade Biológica de 1992, destacaram a necessidade de melhorar o apoio governamental para esta disciplina. Uma das principais conclusões alcançadas foi estabelecer uma iniciativa global para a taxonomia em 1998. Os países se comprometeram a estabelecer programas nacionais, mas como não houve avanço, a Conferência das Partes considerou urgente sua implementação em 2006. Este trabalho revisa os problemas e avanços principais, e propõe uma rota crítica para organizar programas na América Latina com ênfase nos invertebrados marinhos. Propõe-se há necessidade de que os taxônomos e responsáveis de coleções se organizem, melhorem suas relações com os tomadores de decisões e preparem uma iniciativa nacional que deve incluir um programa de contratação progressiva para manter e diversificar o conhecimento da biota marinha. Ao mesmo tempo, se enfatiza que a investigação taxonômica deve incorporar métodos e enfoques bioinformáticos e moleculares, e ser considerada como ciência planetária.