MASTERCLASS

ALL AT SEA APRIL 2021 HELP TO STOP THE SPREAD

How well do you know your invasive species?

The spread of non-native invasive species is becoming a major issue in both the marine and inland waters around the UK. This is because the invasive species compete with our native plants and wildlife, introduce diseases and cause major changes to entire ecosystems.

They can also disrupt boating by restricting navigation, blocking inlets and outlets and increasing the biofouling of boats and marine structures.

Invasive species can unintentionally become transported to a new habitat by becoming attached to boats, caught in watersport’s equipment or even by latching on to clothes. The best way to protect your local area of water is to follow the ‘Check, Clean, Dry’ approach to removing invasive species.

Check for any plant or animal material on your boat, equipment and clothing.

Clean your boat, equipment and clothing that has come into contact with the water thoroughly with tap water. Pay particular attention to crevices where species can be hidden.

Dry your craft, any piece of equipment or clothing thoroughly. Many species can survive in damp conditions for weeks. Here are some of the prolific aquatic invasive plants and animals to look out for when spending time by the coast.

WIRE WEED: Originally from Japan, it grows on hard substrata in shallow waters and can also live in estuarine conditions. Wire weed has a rapid growth rate and easily out competes the native seaweed species. Its dense stature means that it blocks out light and oxygen to native species in the water. In the spring months the weed can grow up to 10cm a day.

WAKAME SEAWEED: It can be identified by its green-brown leaves and its frilly base. The seaweed is a prolific grower and excludes native algal species and alters the local food chain. It can grow up to nine feet and can create a thick canopy.

CARPET SEA SQUIRT: The Carpet Sea Squirt is a marine filter feeder and smothers local marine life. As an individual, it is incredibly small, however individuals live in large colonies creating the appearance of one large structure. Once established they can spread fast on the seabed. It is brownish in colour and can become a serious threat to biodiversity.

PACIFIC OYSTER: They are more irregularly shaped than the flat native oysters, and the edges of the shell have wavy, large frills. The inside of the shell is white to off-white with purple streaks. Establishment of Pacific Oysters can significantly alter diversity, community structure and ecosystems.

CHINESE MITTEN CRAB: These crabs often begin life in lower estuaries and marine habitats and then move upstream to riverbanks and streams. They can range from green, to brown to grey in colour and their front white tipped pincers are covered in dense fine white hairs. Due to their burrowing activity in riverbanks, they can cause heavy bank erosion and flooding.

The Green Blue is dedicating 24 – 30 May to Invasive Species Week. The aim is to raise awareness of non-native invasive species, to help water users feel confident in identifying any invasive species that they encounter and to share preventative measures and tips.

Can’t wait ‘til then? Check out The Green Blue website: www. thegreenblue.org.uk where you will find a range of information on how you can improve the biosecurity of your sailing club or centre as well as guidance and advice for how all recreational boaters can do our bit to prevent the spread of invasive species.

“Invasive species can unintentionally become transported to a new habitat by becoming attached to boats, caught in watersport’s equipment or even by latching on to clothes.”

Read more from The Green Blue on page 27.

Inset images: NonNativeSpeciesSecretariat