Rapid assessment of the distribution of marine non-native species in marinas in Scotland
species, known to occur at other locations within the UK: the crustaceans Caprella mutica and Eriocheirsinensis, ascidians Perophora japonica and Styela clava, the green alga Codium fragile subsp. tomentosoides, and brown algae Sargassum muticum and Undaria pinnatifida. A variety of structures, including pontoon floats, chains and harbour walls were inspected to a depth of 0.5 m for the presence of these non-native species. Seven of the marinas had one or more of the target species. C. mutica wasfound at seven marinas; C. fragile subsp. tomentosoides at two marinas; S. muticum and S. clava were each found at a single marina; E. sinensis, P. japonica and U. pinnatifida were not found. The surveysuggests that recreational boating is an important vector for the dispersal of marine non-native species, and that marinas may act as a refuge for such species. Further and regular port surveys throughout theUK are recommended to provide an effective early warning system for invasive non-native species.
Helmholtz Research Programs > MARCOPOLI (2004-2008) > CO2-Coastal diversity - key species and food webs