‘Thumb splitting’ pest shrimp found in Tauranga Harbour
The Japanese mantis shrimp (Oratosquilla oratoria) has been detected for the first time in the Bay of Plenty region.
As part of Toi Moana Bay of Plenty Regional Council’s Asian paddle crab trapping programme, which is currently being undertaken in Tauranga Harbour by Manaaki Te Awanui, a single Japanese mantis shrimp was captured in one of the traps near Ōmokoroa.
The species were first reported in New Zealand in Kaipara Harbour, Northland, in 2010. The closest known location to the Bay of Plenty where they have been identified is Thames Harbour.
Bay of Plenty Regional Council marine biosecurity staff have formally identified the species. Initial investigations are underway and staff will be assessing next steps for a response plan over the coming days.
If you think you have seen this pest, please contact the Bay of Plenty Regional Council on marine.pests@boprc.govt.nz