Conservation implications of dominant species associated with ocean infrastructure: The genus Tubastraea (Dendrophyllidae)

Abstract

More than 28,000 fixed structures are found throughout the world's continental shelf waters. This infrastructure can have significant ecological value but can also facilitate dominant invasive species. One such taxon is Tubastraea (Dendrophyllidae), several species of which are found throughout the Indian and Pacific Oceans and have invaded the Atlantic Ocean, where their impacts are well-studied. High abundances of Tubastraea on ocean infrastructure have been documented in their native range, particularly in Australia, where we argue Tubastraea should be classified as native dominant invaders. It is critical that we gain a better understanding of the ecological role played by Tubastraea, as this may have significant implications for the decommissioning of ocean infrastructure in both the non-native and native ranges of these species. Countries where Tubastraea are native should be alert to these dominant invasive species, and consider how new habitats such as ocean infrastructure can facilitate native invasions.