First survey of shallow-water Amphipoda along the Georgian Black Sea coast reveals new faunistic records and the unexpected Atlantic invader Melita nitida

Abstract

We present findings from the first survey of shallow-water amphipods conducted along the Black Sea coast in Georgia. Eight species from five families were identified, all but one being new for the Georgian fauna. Most are usual inhabitants of the Black and Mediterranean seas; however, we report the first record of the invader Melita nitida in this region. This species, originating from North America, was previously known in Europe only on the Atlantic and Baltic coasts. Its discovery in the Black Sea implies either jump dispersal or that its distribution is more widespread than is currently recognized. Given that the total number of species reported in Georgia is lower than that reported for the other countries that neighbour the Black Sea, we anticipate the discovery of new taxa in future surveys. Our study highlights the importance of faunistic exploration in previously overlooked regions for detecting potentially cryptic invasions and corroborating biogeographical patterns.