The distribution of the red-throated ascidian Herdmania momus shifts northwards in association with ocean warming in the Korean Peninsula

Abstract

Climate change poses a major threat to marine ecosystems, with its effects felt worldwide. A major effect of climate change on marine ecosystems is the rise in water temperature, leading to a northward expansion of habitats for marine organisms. Herdmania momus, a species of ascidians (sea squirts), originally found in tropical and subtropical regions, was introduced to the Korean Peninsula. In this study, we examined the habitat of H. momus along the southeastern coast of the Korean Peninsula between 2016 and 2022. We found that H. momus settlements were observed across the entire survey area, with confirmed habitation in Busan in 2016, Ulsan in 2021, and Gyeongju (the northernmost location) in 2022. The observed habitation trend indicates a rapid geographical expansion, occurring approximately 79 years earlier than previously predicted. These observations demonstrate that marine organisms are undergoing a more rapid geographical expansion than previously projected. These unexpected findings should inform government policies related to proactive measures and strategies for managing the impact of climate change on marine ecosystems.