Marine Biosecurity research boosted

Following the conclusion of the highly successful Marine Biosecurity Toolbox research programme, which explored solutions and technology related to surveillance and pathway management, Cawthron Institute has received funding from the 2024 MBIE Endeavour Fund to tackle the next step in the biosecurity continuum: eradication and management. 

The programme ‘Effective eradication: strategies, tactics, and technologies for successful marine invasion management’ will tackle the critical threats posed by marine invasive species to our coastal ecosystems and maritime industries. The Programme will be co-led by Cawthron’s Dr Ian Davidson and Dr Patrick Cahill and will establish a national strategy for marine incursion response, including fit-for-purpose decision support and tactical response tools and technologies that increase the efficacy of our response to marine invasive pests.  

Dr Davidson said invasive pests are a big threat to Aotearoa New Zealand’s oceans and coastal areas as they disrupt the ecosystems that we value greatly and depend on for food, industry, and recreation.  

“A lot of effort and resource goes into preventing and responding to invasive pests by organisations including central government, councils, iwi, hapū and whānau kaitiaki, boat owners, environmental groups and researchers. But we need to be proactive about deploying modern technologies and tools for pests in the sea. We will work with these people to develop new approaches that they can be confident will deliver the desired outcomes.”