Climate Change Brings Invasive Species to the⁢ Adriatic Sea

Flora and ‍fauna from warm seas are penetrating the Adriatic Sea, and some native species⁣ are⁤ leaving their⁤ homes due to‌ unfavorable climatic conditions. According to biologist Aljoša Duplić from ⁣the Natural Environment Protection​ Institute, the ecosystem is increasingly threatened by invasive species due to warming.

Predators from the South Invade the Adriatic

Duplić notes that ‌the current situation is favorable for⁤ the spread of tropical and subtropical species. The Mediterranean has seen a continuous influx of species from the Red Sea since the Suez Canal was constructed. These ​species, known as Lesseps emigrants, have begun to spread rapidly throughout the Mediterranean Sea, with some spotted ⁤in the Adriatic.

The Firefish: ⁢A Highly Adaptable Predator

The firefish, or lionfish, is one of the most famous⁣ invasive species in the Adriatic. This​ predator threatens native species and is highly adaptable. Fortunately, it⁢ is edible and has high-quality meat, but its hard, poisonous spines require careful handling.

Other Invasive Species in the Adriatic

Other invasive species, such as the fuga fish, have appeared in the waters of the Adriatic. This fish is considered a gourmet specialty in Japan but is highly poisonous ​and requires specially trained chefs to prepare. Its toxin ‌is 100 times stronger than cyanide, and heat treatment does not neutralize⁢ it.

Mosquitoes Bring Exotic Diseases

Tiger and Japanese mosquitoes have also found their habitat in Croatia, bringing exotic diseases such as⁣ dengue and Zika fever. The Asian hornet is another invasive species‌ that threatens the ⁤honey bee, while North African ants pose a threat to infrastructure and⁣ native ant species.

Nature Will Survive, But Humans?

Due to human actions, nature​ is facing numerous changes, but it has always adapted to new circumstances. To protect the biodiversity of the Adriatic Sea, it is essential to‌ reduce human activity, including‍ fishing, sea routes, and tourism. The aim is to protect 30% of the Adriatic Sea by 2030, with a third under strict protection.

“Nature will certainly survive, and it is up to us humans to change the current way of life if we want civilization to survive,” said Duplić.