Can the use of aquatic non-native species across Europe mitigate their environmental impact?

Abstract

According to conservation science, non-native species in aquatic environments are species that are introduced by humans outside of their natural habitats. They alter ecosystem and biodiversity. In particular, invasive non-native species constitute a major risk that can threaten not only biodiversity and ecosystem, but also the economy and human health. The consequences of this invasive species presence require positive management actions including utilization of these species. The usual practice adopted against the unwanted presence of invasive non-native aquatic species in the environment is their eradication. However, non-native aquatic species, often dangerous to other species or to the environment, may be beneficial to humans. Controlling non-native aquatic species populations by reducing their numbers via utilization is an economically viable way by turning the species into resources rather than simply trying to eradicate them. The harnessing of non-native aquatic species (especially invasive non-native aquatic species) is still limited and needs to be extensively researched. Therefore, the aim of this work is to discuss the favorable and responsible use of non-native aquatic species for human consumption and industry as an alternative to their elimination. In this respect, different approaches to the use of these species are described and reviewed, and their potential for future applications in the context of mitigation of environmental impact is additionally analyzed.