Alien lichens unintentionally transported to the "Arctowski" station (South Shetlands, Antarctica)

作者：Osyczka Piotr^*

来源：Polar Biology, 2010, 33(8): 1067-1073.

DOI：10.1007/s00300-010-0786-z

• Alien species
• Lichens
• Human impact
• Cargo
• Antarctic conservation

The recent climate changes combined with intensified human activity in Antarctica are promoting the synanthropization process and increasing the likelihood of alien species establishing in the native communities. Cargo items, expedition members' equipment and food destined for the 32nd Polish Antarctic Expedition to the "Arctowski" station in the 2007/2008 season were inspected to determine their potential as vectors for alien lichen species. Within the cargo, packaging and foodstuffs scanned, a total of 45 lichen specimens (24 species) were identified. Most of them had been accidentally transported with various timbers. Cargo containers and fresh food were also found to harbour for single specimens. The majority of lichens detected are alien to the Antarctic biota and had never been observed in the region. This paper estimates the potential risk of these lichens establishing themselves in remote southern latitudes. The results emphasize the threat of accidental introduction of alien organisms into Antarctica and the need for taking every precaution to prevent the importation of non-native species to this unique environment.

• 出版日期2010-8