Distribution Status of Invasive Alien Species in the Estuarine Wetlands in East and South Coast, Korea

Abstract

Based on the results of survey on estuarine ecosystem conducted from 2021 to 2023, this study analyzed the distribution pattern of invasive alien species. A total of six invasive alien species (<i>Micropterus salmoides</i> [<i>M. salmoides</i>], <i>Lepomis macrochirus</i> [<i>L. macrochirus</i>], <i>Lithobates catesbeianus</i> [<i>L. catesbeianus</i>], <i>Trachemys scripta</i> [<i>T. scripta</i>], <i>Pseudemys concinna</i> [<i>P. concinna</i>], and <i>Pseudemys nelsoni</i> [<i>P. nelsoni</i>]) were identified across 118 estuarine wetlands. The survey revealed 960 individuals of <i>M. salmoides</i>, 2,596 individuals of <i>L. macrochirus</i>, 1,088 individuals of <i>L. catesbeianus</i>, and 44 individuals of <i>T. scripta</i>, while 1 individual of <i>P. concinna</i> and <i>P. nelsoni</i> were found. These invasive species were found to be densely distributed in estuarine wetlands in the Haenam and Goheung regions of the southern coast. Furthermore, the distribution density varied depending on the characteristics and locations of the estuarine wetlands. It was observed that the distribution density was higher in closed type than in open type, in riverine than in lacustrine, and in the south coast than in the east coast. Once the basic survey of estuarine wetlands located on the west coast is completed, a clearer understanding of the nationwide distribution characteristics of invasive alien species in estuarine wetlands can be achieved. This information will be crucial for formulating appropriate management strategies tailored to the characteristics of wetlands or coastal areas in the future.