Cumulative Negative Impacts of Invasive Alien Species on Marine Ecosystems of the Aegean Sea

Biological invasions are a human-induced environmental disturbance that can cause major changes in ecosystem structure and functioning. Located the northeastern Mediterranean basin, Aegean Sea is hotspot of biological invasions. Although presence alien species has been studied monitored, no assessment conducted on their cumulative impacts native biodiversity. To address this gap, we applied CIMPAL index, framework developed for mapping invasive species, to identify most affected areas habitat types determine region. Coastal showed stronger than open sea. The highest scores were four times more frequent South North Aegean. Shallow (0–60 m) hard substrates heavily impacted type, followed by shallow soft seagrass meadows. We identified Caulerpa cylindracea, Lophocladia lallemandii, Siganus luridus, rivulatus, Womersleyella setacea as impactful across range occurrence but rankings varied depending type impact indicator applied. Our support marine managers prioritizing decisions actions control mitigate impacts.