Hurdles and opportunities in implementing marine biosecurity systems in data-poor regions

by Susana Carvalho, Hailey Shchepanik, Eva Aylagas, Michael L. Berumen, Filipe O. Costa, Mark John Costello, Sofia Duarte, Jasmine Ferrario, Oliver Floern, Moritz Heinle, Stelios Katsanevakis, Agnese Marchini, Sergej Olenin, John K. Pearman, Raquel S Peixoto, Lotfi J. Rabaoui, Greg Ruiz, Greta Srebaliene, Thomas W Therriault, Pedro E Vieira, Anastasija Zaiko
Perspective paper Year: 2023 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1093/biosci/biad056

Abstract

Managing marine nonindigenous species (mNIS) is challenging, because marine environments are highly connected, allowing the dispersal of species across large spatial scales, including geopolitical borders. Cross-border inconsistencies in biosecurity management can promote the spread of mNIS across geopolitical borders, and incursions often go unnoticed or unreported. Collaborative surveillance programs can enhance the early detection of mNIS, when response may still be possible, and can foster capacity building around a common threat. Regional or international databases curated for mNIS can inform local monitoring programs and can foster real-time information exchange on mNIS of concern. When combined, local species reference libraries, publicly available mNIS databases, and predictive modeling can facilitate the development of biosecurity programs in regions lacking baseline data. Biosecurity programs should be practical, feasible, cost-effective, mainly focused on prevention and early detection, and be built on the collaboration and coordination of government, nongovernment organizations, stakeholders, and local citizens for a rapid response.

Keywords

Non-indigenous species Biosecurity Biosecurity frameworks Bioinvasions Marine Biosecurity guidelines