The Sicily Island: an observatory to detect non-indigenous, vagrant and neglected species in the Mediterranean Sea

Abstract

Sicily's central position in the Mediterranean Sea makes it a crossroad for marine species dispersal routes. This study, through data collected along the coast (sampling sites: Trapani, Palermo, Catania, Siracusa, Marzamemi, and Portopalo di Capo Passero), confirms its strategic role in connecting sub-basins, for both native species and NIS, also favouring the detection of rare or neglected species. Surveys in this area could improve understanding of biodiversity changes, biological invasions, and rare and neglected marine species distribution.