Perspectives in aquatic exotic species management in the Pacific Islands - vol.I : introductions of commercially significant aquatic organisms to the Pacific Islands

Abstract

Documentation of animals introduced to Pacific islands since European contact is for the most part anecdotal. Long-term, quantitative studies have not been conducted in the marine environment as they have in other areas. The purpose of this review is to record the intentional and accidental introduction of aquatic plants and animals to the Pacific islands (the area encompassed by the South Pacific Commission). Plants and animals are distributed either intentionally or accidentally. Five periods of introductions for aquatic and terrestrials animals have been proposed (Eldredge, 1992).