Keywords
Lessepsian migrant
range expansion
invasive species
first record
How to Cite
Abstract
The bigfin reef squid, Sepioteuthis lessoniana, is by far the most widespread Lessepsian cephalopod in the Mediterranean Sea and has considerably expanded its range since it was first recorded almost two decades ago. In Türkiye, the species’ occurrence was hitherto restricted to the northern Levantine shores, with reports from Iskenderun, Antalya, and Fethiye Bays. This study reports the presence of S. lessoniana from the Aegean Sea coast of Türkiye for the first time, suggesting a significant northward range of expansion. The observed individuals displayed spawning behavior, and several egg masses were deposited within inshore crevices, indicating the potential presence of a successfully breeding population in the region.
References
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