The first record of a non-native seaweed from South Georgia and confirmation of its establishment in the Falkland Islands: Ulva fenestrata Postels & Ruprecht

• DOI: 10.1007/s00300-023-03136-6
• Publication Date: 2023-04-26T10:02:26Z
• Authors: Robert J. Mrowicki; Juliet Brodie
• Keywords: Ulvophyceae

Abstract Detecting non-native species can be challenging, particularly in the case of taxa such as seaweeds, which difficult to distinguish based on morphology and often require molecular-assisted taxonomy for reliable identification. The sub-Antarctic island South Georgia supports unique important marine biodiversity, including a rich seaweed flora, but despite its isolation, inshore ecosystems are susceptible introduction potentially invasive species. Here, we provide first report Georgia, Ulva fenestrata Postels & Ruprecht (Ulvophyceae, Chlorophyta), confirm widespread presence Falkland Islands via taxonomy. Phylogenetic analyses tufA rbc L-3P genetic markers enabled identification specimen collected from Grytviken, November 2021 U. . In terms sequence, this sample was identical specimens four sites spanning West East 2013 2018. This study represents second Southern Hemisphere record , is generally regarded Northern Our findings foundation monitoring determining likely source mode arrival, while emphasising importance robust biosecurity measures.