Invasive Species Found In Lough

Concern has been raised over the discovery of an invasive species of sea squirt in Strangford Lough.

The Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) has confirmed a colonial sea squirt found in a recent survey of marinas and harbours is the invasive non-native species Didemnum vexillum.

Sea squirts are found all over the world, usually in shallow waters, and survive by attaching themselves to hard surfaces such as rocks, docks, lines and ship hulls.

They can grow rapidly and eventually smother marine life such as sea weeds and marine fauna, including mussels and oysters.

The presence of the invasive species was confirmed by Dr Rohan Holt, Marine Biologist of the Countryside Council for Wales. Dr Holt led a project over the last three years to remove the same species from Holyhead Marina in North Wales.

Dr Holt dived with the NIEA Dive Team to view the sea squirt and collect samples, which were then examined under micrscope in Lisburn, County Antrim.

Commenting on the news, Environment Minister Attwood said: "I am extremely concerned that carpet sea squirt is now confirmed to be in Strangford Lough given its potential to affect the lough’s marine life and some of the economic activities it supports such as aquaculture."

Dr Holt said: "It is crucial to take quick and decisive action to remove the species and minimise the risk of spread or reintroduction. Early investment can avoid much greater costs should the species become well established."

A statement from the Executive read: "NIEA is encouraging all coastal water users, especially in the Strangford Lough area, not to attempt to remove suspected sea squirt from vessels or sea structures, to report possible sightings, with photographic evidence, through the ‘alien watch’ facility of the Invasive Species Ireland website."

(IT)