There is increasing global recognition of the disproportionate degree of biodiversity loss within aquatic ecosystems. In Australia, at least in the immediate to medium-term, impacts from invasive species (aliens, native pests, pathogens, etc.) appears to be the number one biotic threat to the biodiversity and ecological function and integrity of our aquatic ecosystems (i.e. notwithstanding climate change is the number one abiotic threat). Consequently, invasive species should be considered a current priority for research, conservation and management actions. This presentation discusses how development of Conservation and Listing Advices under national conservation law, has enabled for the first time a more forensic analysis of the contribution of invasive species to conservation status across a range of aquatic and coastal ecosystem types. It has also enhanced understanding of demonstrating declines in ecological integrity and identifying priority conservation actions for management.
