Analysing spatio‐temporal patterns of non‐native fish in a biodiversity hotspot across decades

Abstract Aim Analysing the spatio‐temporal patterns and dynamics of non‐native species is essential to understanding mechanisms underlying successful invasions developing effective management strategies. Yet, such analyses generally neglect influence receiving ecosystem types sources (i.e. alien species, non‐natives originating outside concerned region; translocated introduced locations their historical range within region). Location Yunnan, China. Methods We analysed long‐term (1950–2022) potential fishes in a biodiversity hotspot (Yunnan, China), paying special attention waterbody comparing species. did this through compiling highly comprehensive occurrence dataset native fishes. Results recorded 783 94 (49 45 species), which mainly belonged order Cypriniformes (52 species) were via purposes for advancing aquaculture. Most frequently encountered either intentionally aquaculture or small‐bodied fish unintentionally activities. The richness spatial ranges increased consistently since 1950s demonstrated pronounced change after 2000s, with densely populated areas middle lower reaches large rivers being more profoundly affected. number records exceeded 2000s. Lakes reservoirs are hotspots both introductions, watersheds Yunnan (e.g. Jinsha‐Yangtze Lancang‐Mekong basins) contained fish. Main Conclusions Our study highlights need consider invasion sensitivities ecosystems pay intra‐regional translocations when prevention strategies against particularly important around world.