Comparisons of the genetic polymorphism between isolates from the Turkish coasts of the Aegean Sea and individuals from putative native (Red Sea) and introduced (Mediterranean) showed no intra-individual variability, and the geographic distance in Km did not seem to have any relation with intra or interspecific diversity among isolates (Varela-Álvarez et al, 2011).
Procaccini et al 1999 didn't prove any significant correlation between morphological and genetic variability in the meadows in Sicily, Italy. The meadows though showed high morphological ang genetic polymorphism.
: Ballast waters, Biofouling
: Not entered
Results of species assessment according to Target Species selection criteria
Known human health impact? No
Comments: Not available.
Known economic impact? No
Comments: Not available.
Known measurable environmental impact? Yes
Comments: Competition, habitat alteration (Smulders et al. 2017).
References: Smulders, F.O.H., Arie Vonk, J., Engel, M.S., and Christianen, M.J.A., 2017. Expansion and fragment settlement of the non-native seagrass Halophila stipulacea in a Caribbean bay. Mar. Biol. Res. 13 (9), 967-974. https://doi.org/10.1080/17451000.2017.1333620
Included in the final TS list? - Yes
Comments: Assessed by the COMPLETE project experts (2021), included in target species list.