Marine pest find in the Abel Tasman ended well thanks to early detection

It’s been a busy survey season for the team at Tasman District Council with three incursions of Mediterranean fanworm (Sabella spallanzanii).

Two of these incursions were picked up during the summer surveillance programme in Abel Tasman National Park, and both vessels were from ports outside of the Top of the South that have known infestations of Mediterranean fanworm. The vessels were directed to the marina to be hauled out and cleaned.

Mediterranean fanworm was also discovered on a vessel at Port Tarakohe. There has been an infestation of Mediterranean fanworm at Tarakohe in the past; and following a successful eradication plan, the site was due to be declared free of this pest this year. Unfortunately, a vessel had relocated recently and brought some unwelcome hitchhikers. This vessel was ‘wrapped’ (encapsulating the vessel hull with impermeable plastic) and treated to destroy all attached Mediterranean fanworm.

Surveillance programmes involve contract divers surveying vessels for marine pests and educating boat owners on biosecurity risks, and these incursions demonstrate the value of regular surveillance and highlight the importance of boaties making sure the hull is clean before setting off.