Alien and translocated aquatic animals in Southern Africa: a general introduction, checklist and bibliography

Abstract

A list of references to research and records of alien and translocated aquatic animals in southern Africa is given, as well as a general introduction to the problem of invasive aquatic animals. Reference is made to 5&7 publications. The genera of invasive species are listed as keywords, and a keyword index is provided. At least 93 species of alien and translocated indigenous aquatic animals have established populations in southern Africa. Fishes, which constitute the majority (68.850 of the invasive species, may have several deleterious effects on aquatic communities, including habitat alterations, removal of vegetation, reduction of water quality, introduction of parasites and diseases, tropic alterations (eg competition and predation), hybridization, extinction of endemic species and overcrowding. In some cases the introduction of alien fishes may have beneficial effects, as in the establishment of recreational and coninercial fisheries and the culture of fishes for food or for the aquarium trade. All major southern African river systems are inhabited by alien animal species, especially fishes, and the intricate network of intercatchment irrigation canals, pipes and tunnels will further facilitate their transfer. There is therefore an urgent need to assess the impact of invasive animals and to control those populations which are causing damage. There are fewer known invasive animals in the seas surrounding southern Africa (4 species), but this aspect has received little attention and more invasive species may be found in future.