Invasive aquatic invertebrates as biological pollutants: Global challenges and future directions

Invasive aquatic invertebrates are increasingly recognised as a significant yet underappreciated form of biological pollution in freshwater and marine ecosystems worldwide. Unlike conventional chemical pollutants, these organisms are reproduced, persistent, and capable of causing cumulative and often irreversible ecological change. This editorial synthesises current understanding of the pathways, impacts, and management challenges associated with invasive aquatic invertebrates, framing them as biological pollutants that degrade ecosystem structure, function, and services. Major introduction pathways, including ballast water discharge, aquaculture, and ornamental trade have accelerated invasion rates under globalisation, while climate change is further amplifying invasion success by expanding suitable habitats and stressing native communities. Ecologically, invasive invertebrates disrupt food webs, alter nutrient cycling, and shift native species, with cascading consequences for biodiversity and ecosystem resilience. Socio-economic impacts include biofouling of infrastructure, reduced fisheries productivity, and increased public health risks through parasite transmission. Despite advances in invasion ecology, substantial knowledge gaps remain, particularly in early detection, impact prediction, and coordinated governance. The editorial highlights future directions that prioritise prevention, pathway management, early detection technologies such as environmental DNA, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Recognising invasive aquatic invertebrates as biological pollutants provides a unifying framework to strengthen science-based policy and protection aquatic ecosystems under accelerating global change.