Screening for stowaway exotic arthropods imported into Europe via aircraft: A cross-sectional analysis

Key Points

• Imported species of exotic arthropods present significant risks for biodiversity across Europe, highlighting ecological concerns.
• Analysis identified specific pathways through which exotic arthropods are introduced via aircraft, indicating a need for improved screening measures.
• Cross-sectional analysis examined various aircraft routes, revealing patterns in the types of exotic arthropods found upon importation.
• Findings underscore the importance of enhanced monitoring and prevention strategies to protect native ecosystems.