Conservation
Space availability is the prime factor in the establishment of a non-native species. When space is limited Corella eumyota is capable of using any substrate including other sea squirts such as Ascidiella aspersa. Note the two young individuals in the middle. Boulogne-sur-Mer, France © R Huys
Along with other marine organisms, sea squirts are transported around the world via anthropogenic activities. Some - like Corella eumyota - establish and disperse in non-native areas and become unwelcome invasive species causing serious ecological problems by:
- competing and interfering with native fauna and hence
- posing a potential threat to local biodiversity
And causing substantial financial loss to mussel and oyster aquaculture by:
- competing for space and food resources
- reducing water flow and oxygen
There are about 60 established non-native marine species in UK waters. Obtaining records of non-native species occurrence and abundance helps:
- track changes in distribution
- assess their impact on our native fauna and flora
You can report sightings of Corella eumyota in marinas and other sites on the Marine Life Information Network website.
