Potential distribution of the invasive species of slugs Arion Lusitanicus Sensu Lato in Europe

Abstract

Ecological niche modeling (BIOCLIM) of the invasive slug Arion lusitanicus sensu lato was carried out. Considerable potential for further spread of this species was established. This species was found only in Western Ukraine before our study. However the results of modeling show the possibility of its distribution almost all over the country. A new population of A. lusitanicus s.l.found by us in Rivne confirms that. Analysis of the bioclimatic parameters on the area of A. lusitanicus s.l. demonstrates its wide ecological tolerance. This species is characterized by high resistance to sharp temperature variations, but negatively related to excessive humidity and low temperatures. Most of A. lusitanicus s.l. area is in a pessimal zone what can be associated with its synanthropic distribution. Further expansion of A. lusitanicus s.l. in Europe (in east direction) is limited by temperature seasonality and minimal temperature of coldest month. However, it is quite possible penetration of this species outside of the predicted range, given the distribution of A. lusitanicus s.l. in the anthropogenic habitats with special microclimatic conditions.

Keywords

• invasive species
• BIOCLIM
• slugs
• Arion lusitanicus s.l.