First record of Phyllorhiza punctata von Lendenfeld, 1884 (Cnidaria: Rhizostomeae) in Portuguese waters: implications for regional marine ecosystems

Key Points

• The presence of phyllorhiza punctata may disrupt local marine ecosystems, indicating a shift in species dynamics.
• Notable observations included significant changes in biodiversity and trophic interactions within regional habitats.
• Analysis includes physical and biological parameters assessed across multiple sampling locations in Portugal.
• Findings support the need for monitoring invasive species to manage ecological health in marine environments.