Story: Biosecurity

Sea squirt

Sea squirt

Not all biosecurity threats are land-based. In October 2005 an invasive sea squirt (Styela clava or clubbed tunicate) was discovered in Auckland’s Viaduct Basin and in Lyttelton Harbour. It was found soon after on the hull of a vessel that had sailed from Auckland to Picton, and in the Hauraki Gulf and Northland. Eradication seems unfeasible and control of the organism focuses on educating the public to report new incursions and encouraging boat owners to keep their vessels and equipment clean.

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Ministry for Primary Industries, Biosecurity New Zealand

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How to cite this page:

Helen Keyes and Carl Walrond, 'Biosecurity - Modern biosecurity', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/photograph/19069/sea-squirt (accessed 20 April 2024)

Story by Helen Keyes and Carl Walrond, published 24 Nov 2008