Conservation implications of dominant species associated with ocean infrastructure: The genus Tubastraea (Dendrophyllidae)
Credit: Luciano Candisani
Credit: Luciano Candisani
Our paper published in Marine Pollution Bulletin, “Conservation implications of dominant species associated with ocean infrastructure: The genus Tubastraea (Dendrophyllidae)”, explores the ecological impact of ocean infrastructure on marine ecosystems, with a focus on the coral genus Tubastraea. Artificial structures like oil platforms can create habitats that support marine life, but they also facilitate the spread of invasive species. Tubastraea, commonly known as sun corals, are well-documented invasive species in the Atlantic. Our research raises concerns about Tubastraea as native dominant invaders in their home range of Australia, where their ecological role remains poorly understood.
In collaboration with Descom.sub, a sustainable decommissioning research group in Brazil, we examined the invasion pathways and ecological impacts of Tubastraea in the Atlantic. Our findings show that Tubastraea thrive on artificial structures, often reaching extremely high densities. Their ability to rapidly colonise new habitats and outcompete other marine life is aided by their reproductive strategies and chemical defences. While these corals have been extensively studied in their non-native range, their impact on Australian marine ecosystems is largely unknown. This knowledge gap raises concerns that Tubastraea could be silently altering native habitats in similar ways to their invasive behaviour in the Atlantic.
This research has major implications for the decommissioning of ocean infrastructure. If platforms and other structures are removed or relocated without considering dominant species like Tubastraea, it could lead to unintended ecological consequences, including further spread of these corals. We call for increased monitoring and research into Tubastraea in Australia to better understand their potential impacts and inform management decisions. With offshore energy infrastructure expanding, it is crucial to address the potential of these artificial habitats to facilitate native invasions.