First Record of Silurus aristotelis Garman, 1890 in Schinias Olympic Rowing and Canoeing Center (Schinias National Park, Attica, Greece)

This study reports the presence of the endangered endemic Aristotle’s catfish (Silurus aristotelis Garman, 1890) outside of its natural distribution and within the Schinias National Park (Attica Region, Greece), based on morphometric and molecular analyses. The capture of three adult specimens within a small surveyed area suggests that the species is widespread within the National Park and possibly has established a viable population. Given its ecological traits – high environmental adaptability, top predator status, habitat modification tendencies, and territorial behavior – S. aristotelis is expected to exert significant competitive pressure on the park’s endemic and native species, particularly the Marathon minnow (Pelasgus marathonicus Vinciguerra, 1921) and the European eel (Anguilla anguilla L.). Additionally, its invasion risk is amplified under projected climate change scenarios, raising concerns about its long-term ecological impact. The detection of S. aristotelis within this protected area highlights the urgent need for immediate management actions, including eradication or population control measures, particularly since angling is strictly prohibited in this area.