Invasive non-native species constitute one of the leading threats to natural ecosystems
and biodiversity, and also impose an economic cost on a range of human enterprises,
including aquaculture and leisure boating. This project aimed to update the distribution
of marine non-native species (NNS) in Wales, provide training and improved resources
for key stakeholders in identification of NNS, and give guidance on biosecurity measures
and recording schemes.
Rapid assessment surveys (RAS) were carried out at 15 marinas from Conwy to Cardiff,
providing detailed current distributions of 20 non-native species along the Welsh coast;
this data is of relevance to the establishment of baselines for MSFD monitoring of Good
Environmental Status. The most significant observations were the arrival of the kelp
Undaria pinnatifida in N and S Wales, and the ongoing colonisation of additional sites
by species already present, in particular the sea squirts Corella eumyota and Asterocarpa
humilis, and the tube-worm Ficopomatus enigmaticus
