Non-native species in the north Gulf of Aqaba (Red Sea) revealed from environmental DNA

Abstract

The movement of organisms facilitated by anthropogenic activities is a serious threat to marine diversity, especially for endemic species that may be outcompeted from non-indigenous species (NIS). In this study, we have analyzed communities inhabiting the north of the Gulf of Aqaba, Red Sea, employing environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding. That gulf is especially rich in species and population endemism. We have detected NIS representing 36% of the total number of species found from eDNA. Primary producers were more abundant in the NIS than in the native fraction of species, suggesting that functional diversity could be altered if NIS thrive there. We discuss maritime traffic as a factor that may enhance the introduction of non-natives in this region and emphasize the importance of the control of these species that may threaten the rich endemic biota of the Red Sea.