HCNSO Student Theses and Dissertations
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Defense Date
12-9-2010
Document Type
Thesis - NSU Access Only
Degree Name
M.S. Marine Biology
Department
Oceanographic Center
First Advisor
Samuel J. Purkis
Second Advisor
David W. Kerstetter
Third Advisor
Richard E. Spieler
Abstract
Pterois volitans and Pterois miles, two species of lionfish from the South Pacific and Indian Ocean, have become prolific invaders of reef, hard bottom, mangrove, and sea grass habitats along the United States Atlantic coast and Caribbean. Their route and timing of introduction is poorly understood. However, historical sightings and captures have been robustly documented since their introduction. This study presents an in-depth analysis of these records based on spatial location, dates of arrival, and physical factors present at capture sights. A stage map was created showing the progression of the invasion as a series of current-driven and proximity-based recruitment periods based on the observed invasion pattern. Using a model that was developed for this study, the relationship between depth, salinity, temperature, and current was examined, finding the latter to be the most influential parameter for transport to new areas. Temperature and extreme depth are perceived as the only limiting factors in the invasion. This predictive model can be applied to other species and locations.
NSUWorks Citation
Matthew W. Johnston. 2010. Spatial Analysis of the Invasion of Red Lionfish, Pterois volitans/miles, in the Western Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean Sea. Master's thesis. Nova Southeastern University. Retrieved from NSUWorks, Oceanographic Center. (216)
https://nsuworks.nova.edu/occ_stuetd/216.