Marine

What to do if you have found a non native species

August 18, 2011 by admin No Comments | Category Marine Directorate Science

Non-native species (or “alien species”) are introduced outside of their natural past or present distribution – sometimes by human action. The term, Non-native species cover a wide range of different species from microscopic animals and plants to quite large species such as seaweeds, sea squirt, and crustaceans.

Marine Scotland Science has prepared a document that informs about what to do if you think you have found a non-native species. The document also contains background information, images of known marine and freshwater non-native species, and contact details.

The main steps to follow if you think you have found a non-native species in our environment is:

• Do NOT release the species back into the environment
• Quarantine or disinfection may be required depending on the species
• Confirm the identification – take a specimen if necessary
• Record the details of the find
• Record the find

More useful information can be found at the GB Non-Native Species Secretariat website

Tags: alien species, Non-Native Species

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