Marine biological invasions are increasing worldwide, posing significant ecological, economic and social threats. Didemnum vexillum, an invasive colonial ascidian, was first detected in Australian waters at Garden Island, WA in 2021, and later in Henderson, WA and Fleet Base East in Sydney, NSW in 2023. Invasive species such as D. vexillum have been linked to significant environmental and economic impacts. Understanding past impacts from invasion could support the development of targeted management plans to mitigate impacts from the newly established D. vexillum in Australia.
In this study, two separate scoping literature syntheses were performed following the tiered, two-stage screening ROSES protocol to better understand (1) the potential economic, environmental and social impacts of D. vexillum in Australia; and (2) management methods used previously to control and eradicate D. vexillum, specifically relevant for the Australian context. Preliminary results show that D. vexillum can invade epifaunal communities in deep and shallow waters worldwide, with significant implications to their community structure and ecosystem processes; however, more studies are needed to better understand their economic and social impact. Overall, D. vexillum represents a threat to marine habitats globally, and understanding their impacts will help in managing this species and its impacts in Australia.