Complementary Data Sources for Mapping Target Mediterranean Non-Native and Cryptogenic Species: The Role of Local Knowledge and Citizen Science

Citizen Science (CS) and especially Local Ecological Knowledge (LEK) play an increasingly crucial role in assessing the impacts of climate change on the biodiversity of Mediterranean shallow waters. We explored the use of multiple data sources - including CS, and particularly, LEK and social media - to assess the distribution of selected, especially non-native and cryptogenic thermophilic, marine species in the Mediterranean. This case study aims to test the complementarity and reliability of adequately validated participatory and informal knowledge systems in documenting species occurrences. The approach highlights the potential of integrated methodologies to support biodiversity mapping and address data gaps in marine research.