A Novel Invertebrate Predator on an Oceanic Island: Impacts and Invasion Dynamics of Kontikia andersoni on Macquarie Island

Invasive flatworms Kontikia andersoni significantly reduce invertebrate richness at higher elevations on Macquarie Island, threatening native biodiversity. Researchers analyzed species co-occurrence data and community composition across multiple sites, revealing that slope and wind speed are key factors influencing the flatworm's distribution. Habitat suitability modeling identified high-risk areas for invasion, offering critical targets for biosecurity surveillance. This study provides new insights into the ecological impacts of K. andersoni and supports conservation efforts to protect Macquarie Island's fragile ecosystems.

Williams, K. M., Waite, S., Houghton, M., Firn, J., & Shaw, J. (2025). A Novel Invertebrate Predator on an Oceanic Island: Impacts and Invasion Dynamics of Kontikia andersoni on Macquarie Island. Ecology and Evolution, 15(7). Portico. https://doi.org/10.1002/ece3.71663