Diversity and Distribution of the Inland Water Decapods of Sicily (Crustacea, Malacostraca)

The current knowledge of Sicilian inland water decapod malacostracans is scarce and an updated synopsis on species distribution lacking. Therefore, we reviewed the checklist recent decapods based published unpublished records novel observations with aim providing exhaustive repository, also to be used as a sound baseline for future surveys. Overall, five native occur in study area, i.e., atyid shrimp Atyaephyra desmarestii, palaemonid shrimps Palaemon adspersus, P. antennarius, elegans, freshwater crab Potamon fluviatile, their local distributions are described. In addition, three alien were recorded: common yabby Cherax destructor red swamp crayfish Procambarus clarkii, strictly linked waters, Atlantic blue Callinectes sapidus, mainly marine that can colonise lower stretches rivers coastal brackish waters. collected data suggest existence partial segregation versus non-native species, latter currently confined bodies rivers. Moreover, exclusively caridean A. desmarestii antennarius show parapatric which may mutual exclusion phenomena. results obtained raise some concerns about effects biota, dedicated monitoring management strategies should implemented order better understand mitigate impact.