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Fishing & Ecosystems

Ecosystem Loss - Links from Dr. Kamal
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1.1 Conference Papers
1.1.13 Non-indigenous marine species threatening our ports: Are we ready to tackle them?

Abstract

 

Globalization of trade has resulted in increased levels of long distance travel and frequency of shipping. Subsequently, this has led to extending the distribution of marine non-indigenous species (NIS) in areas they have never existed and ultimately driving marine biodiversity towards more homogenized systems. Following the translocation of NIS, they may spread, establish or later become Invasive alien species (IAS) in native ecosystems. Biofouling results due to accretion of undesirable aquatic organisms on submerged surfaces exposed to the marine environment over a longer period of time. Presently, biofouling is considered one of the leading causes of marine bioinvasions. The present study was conducted in Colombo Port from October 2014 to October 2016 using fabricated settlement collectors. The existing fouling assemblage, their invasive potential, and rate of their colonization were investigated. The study so far has recorded globally known invasive species namely, Schizoporella errata, Watersipora subtorquata, Bugula simplex, Bugula neritina, Balanus amphitrite, Botryllus schlosseri, Eualete stulipa and Anomia chinensis. Among these, some of the species are first records for Sri Lanka and species such as Schizoporella errata, Bugula neritina, Eualetes tulipa and Anomia chinensis seems to be already established. Some of these species can later become invasive and cause deleterious impacts on biodiversity by displacing native species, altering community structure, dynamics, and ecological processes. Severe economic implications may arise when these species start to affect natural resource-based industries such as fisheries, aquaculture and by fouling on physical structures such as ship hulls, water intake pipes, and other man-made structures. Therefore, it is very important to recognize NIS and prevent, control and manage species introductions before they become IAS. Thus, coastal communities, vessel owners, scientists, policy makers, government agencies along with port authorities and environmental organizations should pay collective attention on the issue before it is too late.

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