Maine Sea Grant - Marine Bioinvasions

Marine Bioinvasions

Asian shore crabs, dead man's fingers, green crabs-these are examples of species invading Maine's coastal waters. Also known as bioinvaders or nuisance species, marine invasive species are plants, animals, and other organisms introduced from other regions that spread in their new environment to the extent that they overtake native species and their habitats. Marine invasive species can cause significant economic and ecological impacts, and create a challenge for marine managers.

On May 5, Maine Sea Grant and the Casco Bay Estuary Project held a forum on the impact of non-native and other marine invasive species. Maine's Marine Invasion was designed to raise public awareness of bioinvaders that threaten Maine's marine environment and to energize further collaboration on marine invasive species monitoring, research, management, and education.

The forum brought scientists, managers, and other marine professionals together with the public. Scientists from throughout New England presented an overview of the species of concern to Maine, including the results of a rapid assessment of invasive species at a number of sites in Casco Bay. A preliminary list of these species, compiled by Dr. James Carlton of Williams College, is now available. Speakers provided an overview of the potential pathways for marine invasive species introduction in Maine and information about management approaches. Afternoon working sessions drafted strategies for early detection and rapid response to current and future invasions. It is hoped that the forum will serve as the first step in developing a statewide strategy for addressing marine invasive species issues in Maine, and a working group has formed to continue the effort.

Forum proceedings and additional information are available from the Casco Bay Estuary Project - http://www.cascobay.usm.maine.edu/invasives.html

LD 667 Testimony to the Joint Standing Committee of Natural Resources PDF 30KB