| This review addresses the problem of recently introduced plants in the Mediterranean in order to analyse their vectors, the dispersal processes and the possible ecological and economic consequences. Ninety-five cases (94 macroscopic algae and one seagrass) are listed and discussed. Three major routes of access into the Mediterranean are indicated: shipping, the Suez canal and aqua-culture. The recent introduction of Caulerpa taxifolia along our coasts has called attention to a new potential source: aquaria. Among the successful acclimatizations, cold-temperate Pacific and Atlantic species remain confined to the north of the Mediterranean (Gulf of Lions, Adriatic), whereas some tropical or sub-tropical plants colonize large areas. Some introduced algae... |
