Diversity and patterns of marine non‐native species in the archipelagos of Macaronesia

Aims The present study is the first attempt to grasp scale and richness of marine biological invasions in Macaronesia. We pioneered a comprehensive non-native species (NNS), inventory region determine their diversity patterns native distribution origins. NNS were defined here as result both introductions range expansions. also used statistical modelling examine relationships among richness, anthropogenic activities, demographic geographical variables across Location Methods A literature search was conducted for records Macaronesia, registering record's location year from 1884 2020. univariate multivariate analyses evaluate differences similarities community composition. By applying Generalized Linear Model (GLM), we tested hypotheses regarding function variables. Results total 144 (NNS) recorded whole highest registered Canary Islands (76 NNS), followed by Azores (66 Madeira (59 NNS) finally Cabo Verde (18 NNS). Some amongst archipelagos observed, such high number macroalgae Azores, fishes tunicates Verde. Overall, macroalgae, bryozoans predominant taxonomic groups Macaronesian archipelagos. with more similarity NNS, most divergent. Finally, GLM suggested that Macaronesia dependent on considered archipelago strongly affected (1) minimum distance mainland, (2) ports marinas (3) area (km2). Conclusions model results listing will likely raise awareness response region, serving baseline future research well implementing enforcing regulations related introduction oceanic islands.