An alarming mariculture breach in a coral reef: Alien barramundi lates calcarifer (bloch, 1790) at the northern red sea

Abstract

This study delivers a continuous evidence of alien barramundi Lates calcarifer in the Northern Red Sea, a likely outcome of fish-cage escapees from the Saudi Arabian mariculture industry, located approx. 800 km to the south. Genetic mtDNA examinations provided solid evidence for an Australian ancestral origin. Debate for the ecological implications along with emphasis on needed biosecurity practices and management regulation are provided.