18 January 2011

Bioblitz Coming to Porirua

One of the world’s first combined marine and terrestrial survey of plants, animals and insects will take place in Porirua City early next month.

The Mana Land and Sea BioBlitz project will launch on 5 February for a month until 6 March 2011.

The BioBlitz camp will be based at the old Cable House, owned by the Porirua City Council, beside Titahi Bay beach. A second lab will be set up on Mana Island.

BioBlitz is a scientific survey to find as many different plants and animals as possible within a specific timeframe and specific area, says Project Coordinator Allie Burnett.
"Normally a BioBlitz is held over a 24 hour period. However, when surveying species in the sea around New Zealand more time is needed to allow for weather uncertainties
It's designed as a scientific endeavour that is also an educational event, incorporates elements of a festival and above all is a celebration of local biodiversity."

Scientists from a range of organisations and the local community will work throughout the month to see how many species can be found and identified on and around Mana Island, Whitireia Park and Titahi Bay.

The base camp laboratory in the Cable House on the corner of Bay Drive and Richard Street, will be open every weekend during the BioBlitz. A team of experts and scientists will be on hand to help identify species.

Council Biodiversity & Horticulture Officer Chris Freeman says Titahi Bay is already home to some rare plants - one that is found only in Titahi Bay.
"The shore koromiko and Melicytus grow in Titahi Bay and just a few scattered places in central New Zealand while the pygmy button daisy grows only in Titahi Bay.

"This BioBlitz is a chance for local residents, scientists and volunteers to find more unique species of plants, animals or insects. It's a chance to learn about what's right on our doorstep so we can ensure we look after them into the future," Chris says

Any new discoveries will be further identified by specialists before being added to the BioBlitz database.

Volunteer roles during the BioBlitz include science support, data entry,divers, photo library management, educational guiding and assisting visitors.

Anyone wanting to become a volunteer can email Allie at bioblitz@forestandbird.org.nz with details of your experience, skills, areas of interest and the dates and times you are available.

Allie says the BioBlitz is also an opportunity for local schools to get involved.

"During the weekends children will be able to observe some of NZ's leading scientists at work identifying species that have been found on Mana Island and the Titahi Bay region."

UNESCO has funded National Curriculum linked educational resources that guide the children through a complete lesson within the unit Living World.

"These self-contained booklets, together with practical hands-on experience at the event, will ensure the students gain the most benefit from participating in the BioBlitz."

Teachers Notes accompany these booklets to guide the teacher through the intended outcomes and give options for future lessons. Schools wanting to get involved can contact Allie at the email address above.

For more information go to www.bioblitz.org.nz.

ENDS

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