The invasive biology of the talitrid amphipod Platorchestia platensis in North West Europe

Abstract

The talitrid amphipod Platorchestia platensis (Kröyer, 1845) is an invasive species which has been spreading along European coasts over the last 150 years. This paper will review what is known of the distribution of P. platensis to date, before discussing potential distribution methods, evaluating potential management strategies and providing a perspective on the future distribution of this species. Despite P. platensis having worldwide distribution, very little is known about its invasive history. It has been established that the most likely methods of dispersal for P. platensis are on currents and in ballast water, though further research is needed. Although dispersal on currents is unavoidable, heating ballast water provides a cheap, effective and environmentally friendly solution. Predictions of the future distribution of P. platensis can be made using demographic models or by studying genetic diversity and evolutionary changes for understanding the potential for colonisation, geographic patterns of invasion and the potential for evolutionary responses to novel environments.