Biodiversity and mollusc transfer: need of observance of the laws to avoid alien seaweeds introduction

The seaweeds Undaria pinnatifida, Codium fragile, Grateloupia turuturu and Ascophyllum nodosum were accidentally introduced into the Taranto seas probably by means of pacific oysters both as a packing material and as microscopic life stages settled on mollusc valves. Therefore, the need is highlighted of making mussel farmers and fishmongers aware of risks coming from alien species introduction and of severe control measures.