Global-Scale Habitat Suitability Modeling of the Invasive Polychaete Eurythoe complanata Across Marine Biogeographic Realms

Invasive species are among the leading drivers of biodiversity loss and ecosystem dysfunction. Eurythoe complanata , a polychaete of the family Amphinomidae, is recognized for its high invasive potential. Understanding its current and potential future distribution is vital for proactive management. Here, we used an ensemble of two regression-based distribution models (Generalised Linear Model (GLM) and Generalised Additive Model (GAM)) to map the global distribution of E. complanata and to identify the most important environmental predictors of its distribution. We showed that the most suitable habitats are located through the Central Indo-Pacific and Tropical Atlantic. Additionally, we identified some high risk areas of invasion by the species based on the environmental suitability. Results showed that, among the environmental variables, depth followed by sea surface temperature, pH and calcite were the most influential determinants of the E. complanata distribution. Areas identified to have high suitability and thus high risk of invasion are of critical importance for future field monitoring and early detection of this invasive species.