Harbour type and use destination shape fouling community and non-indigenous species assemblage: A study of three northern Tyrrhenian port systems (Mediterranean Sea)

Fouling communities were studied in three port systems of Northern Tyrrhenian Sea (Western Mediterranean), focusing on the occurrence of non-indigenous species (NIS). For each port system two harbour types (large port and recreational marina) were sampled and, within each large port, fouling samples were collected considering two use destinations (commercial and touristic harbour). Among the 431 taxa identified, forty-two were alien or cryptogenic, four of which were new records for the study area. Harbour type and use destination shaped fouling communities and NIS assemblages, with their relative influence varying among different port systems. High fouling variability was detected within port environments and between different marinas. NIS showed the highest occurrence in large ports, in which the touristic harbour generally hosted the greatest amount. Therefore, the touristic harbours within large ports were identified as susceptible areas for NIS establishment and their possible subsequent spread at local scale through recreational maritime traffic. [Display omitted] •Fouling communities were studied in three port systems of Western Mediterranean.•A high spatial heterogeneity of fouling community was observed within port environments.•Different harbour types and use destinations host specific fouling communities and NIS assemblages.•The most susceptible area for NIS introduction is the touristic harbour within large ports.