Ocean Rafting: Marine Litter and Benthic Stopovers Amplify Species Dispersal Opportunities

作者：Sabine Rech, Martín Thiel, Gregory M. Ruiz, Linsey E. Haram, James T. Carlton · 发表于：Global Ecology and Biogeography · 年份：2025 · DOI：10.1111/geb.70031 · 被引用次数：8 · 研究领域：Microplastics and Plastic Pollution、Marine Biology and Environmental Chemistry、Wildlife-Road Interactions and Conservation

ABSTRACT Background Rafting of organisms on floating objects, long recognised as a key process in biogeography and evolution, has undergone tremendous change with the rapid increase of ocean litter (plastics and other human‐made materials). Resulting increases in raft longevity and abundance expand opportunities for marine species' dispersal. Here, we present a conceptual framework for the role of benthic stopovers by artificial rafts and how these likely enhance cumulative species acquisition and dispersal. Stages of Benthic Stopovers We define four stages of benthic stopovers: (1) landing (horizontal transport) or sinking (vertical transport), (2) retention in the benthic habitat (intertidal or subtidal), (3) colonisation by local species, and (4) re‐washing (horizontal transport) or re‐surfacing (vertical transport). Colonisation and Dispersal From Stopovers The fate of floating items and their attached biota depends on the interplay of local (site‐related), regional (oceanographic/climatic) and object characteristics. Available literature suggests that stopover events on shores (horizontal transport) are most likely to happen in complex natural environments like mangrove forests or rocky shores. These can trap and retain litter in the inter‐ and subtidal zone, with access to suitable rafting species. Large and highly buoyant items, with rigid surfaces resistant to breakage, are most likely to complete stopovers. Conclusions Stopovers can enhance colonisation and dispersal...