Thursday 18 June

Fanworm pest found in port

Marine pest the Mediterranean Fanworm has been found at Gisborne Port last Thursday 11 June by New Zealand Diving and Salvage divers.

Only one fanworm has currently been found and it may be possible to eradicate it.

“We’re currently working through what options are available with the Ministry of Primary Industries as the Council doesn’t have underwater capability,” says shared services science manager Lois Easton.

“For past marine pest incursions DOC have helped us out, and we will probably ask the Port whether they can also assist as.”

Fanworm is considered an unwanted pest found mainly in ports or estuaries in 1m – 30m deep water.

“It can have significant environmental impacts as well as extensively fouling boats and marine structures,” says Ms Easton.

The fanworm has become established in Lyttelton Port, the wider Waitemata Harbour in Auckland and in Whangarei Harbour.

The worm can be transported on dirty boat hulls, inside sea chests and emergency fire intakes.

Boat operators are reminded to keep hulls clean, ensure the antifouling paint is in good condition and to always check their hulls and equipment such as buoys, boat trailers and fishing gear to prevent transferring the pest between locations.

ENDS

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