The small foreigner: new laws will promote the introduction of non-native zooplankton in Brazilian aquatic environments

The small foreigner: new laws will promote the introduction of non-native zooplankton in Brazilian aquatic environments

Paula Nunes Coelho, Raoul Henry

Abstract Non-native species of zooplankton have been introduced in Brazilian continental aquatic environments for a variety of reasons (e.g., non-native fish stocking, aquaculture), but many pathways of zooplankton introductions remain unknown. Recently, the governor of the State of Amazonas passed Law No. 79/2016, which allows for aquaculture operations using non-native fish in that state. This change in policy will likely result in the species introduction or propagule pressure of non-native zooplankton such as: Mesocyclops ogunnus Onabamiro, 1957; Kellicottia bostoniensis (Rousselet, 1908); Daphnia lumholtzi Sars, 1885; Lernaea cyprinacea (Linnaeus, 1758); Lamproglena monodi Capart, 1944. Of further concern is federal law No. 5989/09, which proposes the use of non-native fish in Brazilian aquaculture nationwide. We believe that both laws will intensify the introduction of non-native zooplankton. Once established in aquatic environments, non-native species of zooplankton could result in negative impacts (e.g., a loss of ecosystem services, food web alterations). Therefore, Brazilian authorities should incentivize the use of local native species rather than pass laws that threaten the environment.

2017

invasões biológicas, pressão de propágulo, Neotropical, Água doce, Política ambiental

DOI: 10.1590/s2179-975x0717

Acta Limnologica Brasiliensia

Associação Brasileira de Limnologia

Ecology

EN