Combining environmental suitability and population abundances to evaluate the invasive potential of the tunicate Ciona intestinalis along the temperate South American coast.

摘要: The tunicate Ciona intestinalis is an opportunistic invader with high potential for causing economic losses in aquaculture centers. Recent phylogenetic and population genetic analysis support the existence of a complex described as C. two main dominant species (sp A B) occurring worldwide. In Chile, has been observed around 30°S latitude, but no official reports exist presence southern regions (above 40°S), where most mollusk centers are located. Here, we used occurrences from multiple invaded extensive field sampling to model validate environmental conditions that allow persist find geographic areas suitable spread Chilean coast. By studying expansion southward Coast, aimed provide valuable information might help development control plans before becomes significant problem, especially above 40°S. Our results highlight that, by using portions habitat apparently distinguishable, seem be not only genetically distinct, ecologically distinct well. regional models fitted sp B showed disagreement on which sections coastline considered more these species. While identifies moderately highly between 30° 40°S, classifies 45°S appropriate. Data show positive linear relationship density index suitability Understanding relation surrounding environment provided insights about probable routes dispersion into those activities yet recorded. We discuss implications our findings useful tool anticipate invasion such harmful invasive regard relevant variables.