28 May 2008
MAF Biosecurity New Zealand acts on marine pest find in Lyttelton Port
MAF Biosecurity New Zealand (MAFBNZ) is responding to the detection of a new and unwanted marine species in Lyttelton
Port.
The newly identified species, the Mediterranean fanworm (Sabella spallanzanii), was found as part of MAFBNZ’s routine
targeted surveillance programme. This programme, undertaken at a number of ports and marinas where vessels enter New
Zealand, is designed to detect certain introduced pest organisms at an early stage in order to allow a greater chance of
eradication or effective management.
Response Manager, Senior Marine Advisor Dr Peter Stratford says the fanworm is one of the species MAFBNZ looks out for,
due to its potential to spread and impact on other marine species. The Mediterranean fanworm poses no risk to human
health.
Dr Stratford says the detection of a single mature individual fanworm is the first report of this species in New
Zealand.
``At this point in time, it is too early to know the scale of what we are dealing with in Lyttelton, and indeed the
course of action to be taken. At the time the sample was taken, visibility was low in the harbour and the divers
undertaking the work were not able to gain a clear picture of the spread of any species present.
``The next step for us is to establish how widespread the fanworm is, and determine any potential impacts on New
Zealand’s marine environment.’’
Dr Stratford says work is underway developing a survey that will determine the size of the population in the area and
inform decisions on the type of management that may be required to limit its spread or impact.
ENDS
Further information on the fanworm is available at:
http://www.biosecurity.govt.nz/pest-and-disease-response/pests-and-diseases-watchlist/mediterranean-fanworm