Introduced Marine Aquatic Invaders - a field guide

What I can do?

The European fan worm (Sabella spallanzanii) was first discovered in Australia in 1965, at Albany Harbour in WA. It has since spread to other locations, such as Cockburn Sound, where it fouls jetty pylons, wrecks and breakwaters and forms large meadows stretching across the sea floor. This species has been recorded as having a serious impact in other areas it has invaded, including Port Phillip Bay in Victoria.

Photo: Peter Morrison

Eradication of introduced marine species is extremely difficult. Early detection and monitoring are vital tools in eliminating and controlling the further spread of marine pests. Many of you are familiar with our marine environment; you may swim or dive, be a keen recreational fisherman, earn your livelihood from the marine environment in aquaculture, commercial fishing or tourism, or simply enjoy walking along the beach or river. Your familiarity with marine plants and animals makes you a valuable guardian of WA's native species.

If you see an unusual marine plant or animal which you have not observed before, please contact the Department of Fisheries's FISHWATCH service on 1800-815-507. Your contribution in monitoring our coastline for introduced marine pests is invaluable. WA's marine environment belongs to the whole community and is the responsibility of all of us.