The range expansion of Clibanarius erythropus to the UK suggests that other range-shifting intertidal species may not follow

Abstract The ranges of species are shifting as a consequence anthropogenic climate change. In the marine realm biogeographic transition zones could form barriers to dispersal and inhibit range-shift, but little is known about this potential effect. hermit crab Clibanarius erythropus appeared in UK 2016 with nearest reproducing population being on northern coast Brittany. This raises questions which conditions may have permitted C. cross English Channel (7.25°W, 49.00°N) whether barrier be overcome by other intertidal species. Dispersal simulations suggest larvae arrived 2014, originated from North Brittany, experienced mean temperature around 16 °C, took longer than 20 days transported across channel. transportation Brittany southwest appears rare driven occasional, unusual ocean currents. continue prevent pelagic that settle within days, such many gastropod, annelids, macroalgae, successfully range expanding UK. was only landmass it feasible originated. Therefore, long-lived without populations not appear until established limit ability shift their