The temporal abundance-distribution relationship in a global invader sheds light on species distribution mechanisms

The geographic expansion and abundance fluctuations of invasive species offer unprecedented insights to investigate potential mechanisms underlying the distribution-abundance relationship, one most universal patterns in community ecology. However, is rarely documented needed detail. Data from historical records, scientific popular literature, citizen science expert interviews were synthesized obtain into long-term cycles Chinese mitten crab, world’s 100 worst species. Thus for first time, global data on population size have been correlated with spatiotemporal invasion history a non-native Geographic expansions increases co-occurred 1930s again since 1990s agreement relationship. Furthermore, regional case study German river Elbe indicates that may be driven by improved riverine water quality rising sea surface temperatures. Environmental restoration climate change therefore benefit this species, could lead further abundance.