Guidelines on assessing and minimizing the possible impacts from the use of non-indigenous species in aquaculture

This publication presents guidelines prepared and adopted by the General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean (GFCM) to assess and minimize the possible impacts from the use of non-indigenous species in the Mediterranean and the Black Sea. Specifically, it identifies the guiding principles and minimum common criteria needed to minimize the potential adverse impacts of non-indigenous species on biodiversity, natural habitats, ecosystems and related ecosystem services. By recommending practical actions to stakeholders, these guidelines aim to create a common regional framework on aquaculture practices related to the use of non-indigenous species and provide decision-makers with a useful tool for policy development.