Invasive Marine Species: The Silent Threat

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According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the introduction of invasive species in the Mediterranean has become the second leading cause of marine biodiversity loss, behind only habitat degradation due to human activity.

In light of this alarming reality, the Museu Marítim de Barcelona and the Centre d'Estudis Avançats de Blanes (CEAB-CSIC) present Invasive Marine Species: The Silent Threat, an exhibit which focuses on the impact that these species are having on Mediterranean marine ecosystems.

The Mediterranean is the sea with the highest number of invasive species, with two of the main entry points being the Suez Canal and the Strait of Gibraltar. It is estimated that around 4,000 species travel across the world every day. However, studies indicate that less than 3% of these species establish themselves permanently and become "invasive."

What is an invasive species? And what is an introduced species? What are the main routes of entry for these species in the Mediterranean? What impact do they have on marine ecosystems and/or economic activity? What is the impact of climate change in general and the warming of waters in particular? What measures can be implemented to mitigate this threat and preserve marine biodiversity? 

The exhibition answers these and other questions that are critical in understanding the challenges posed by invasive species.

For more events check our online events calendar.