Species range shifts, biological invasions and ocean warming
Marine species are moving beyond their native geographical ranges in response to climate change and shifting abiotic conditions, establishing populations at higher latitudes. Similarly, species are introduced into new marine regions as a consequence of an increasingly connected world. The success of such marine species range expansions, whether from shifts associated with climate change or with human-mediated introductions, depends on the biotic interactions and environmental conditions at the recipient site and/or the capacity of species to adapt to these new conditions. The arrival of species at new regions can lead to ecological challenges for both the invader and the recipient community; however, the magnitude and direction of the ecological effects are not well understood.

This Theme Section invites studies focusing on shifts in species ranges and/or biological invasions fuelled by ocean warming. Contributions may include original studies, reviews, meta-analyses, or perspectives describing the mechanisms behind the ecological success (or failure) of species movement and the effects — ranging from positive to negative — on native species, communities, and ecosystem services.

If you wish to contribute your work to this Theme Section, please select the “SHIFT” Section when you submit your manuscript online and mention in your cover letter that you are interested to have your work included in this Theme Section.

For questions, contact Christine Paetzold (Managing Editor) .

Organizers: Andrea Anton, Eugenia Apostolaki, Marlene Wesselmann

Editors: Andrea Anton, Amanda E. Bates, Vasilis Gerovasileiou, Graeme Hays, Inna M. Sokolova, Cascade J. B. Sorte, Paul Snelgrove

Status: Submissions are closed.

Important notice: Submissions to this Theme Section after 1 November 2022 are not affected by the changes in MEPS Open Access pricing. Pre-November prices will apply along with a 20% discount.

Individual Theme Section articles are published 'Advance View' as soon as they are ready. Once the Theme Section is completed, they will be fully published in a regular volume of MEPS and given a volume number and page range. Theme Section literature cites within the articles will also be updated at that time.