POSSIBLE ERADICATION OF AN INVASIVE NON-NATIVE SEA SQUIRTS IN HOLYHEAD MARINA

Descriptions

THIS PROJECT MAY NOT PROCEED, DEPENDENT IF DIDEMNUM VEXILLUM ESCAPES FROM HOLYHEAD MARINA.An eradication attempt was undertaken during the winter of 2009/10. The attempt was unsuccessful due to the re settlement of larvae on the cleaned surfaces. This was identified as due to the timing of the attempt and should have been carried out during the winter period when the water temperature was below the 8°C threshold.It is anticipated the next eradication (if D vex does not escape Holyhead Marina) will require three teams working simultaneously on the different aspects of the eradication programme:Team 1.Dedicated to diving tasks Mainly chain and mooring treatments and assisting where required with larger structures. Team 2.Bag and wrap smaller pontoon structures CCW identified that some of this work could be carried out by willing volunteer groups and sourced such help, but it was noted that there was a requirement for an experienced leader. There is a potential ‘pool’ of volunteers at the School of Ocean Sciences, Menai Bridge and from local diving clubs who wish to participate in part of the eradication process. Team 3.Bag and wrap larger structures (breakwater and larger walkway pontoons). More specialist knowledge and design capabilities required to work with very large and complex shaped structures underwater.It will be mandatory for work to be carried out during the coldest part of the winter when the water temperature is below the 8°C threshold.To view the report by Holt, R.H.F. and Cordingley, A.P. (2011) please request a copy (document is nearly 9mb)