The Importance of Marine Bivalves in Invasive Host–Parasite Introductions

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Although research into the ecology and impacts of invasive species is prevalent, there are knowledge gaps relating to the role of invasive species in parasite transmission. This work synthesises invasive host–parasite interactions and impacts, using marine bivalves as a model group, to consider how global movement of shellfish consignments for aquaculture purposes facilitates the unintentional transfer of invasives. We discuss how invasive species can act as both hosts or parasitic organisms themselves, and introductions may lead to diseases within the bivalve aquaculture sector. This review highlights the importance of interdisciplinary research, with particular regard to the fields of parasitology and invasion ecology. We suggest that further integrating these fields will enhance critical knowledge of marine diseases, parasite-invasive-bivalve interplay dynamics, and potential mitigation strategies, including temperature-based disease surveillance models. We also address how climate change might impact invasive species, again with a focus on marine bivalves, and the potential outcomes for parasite transmission, including changes in host/parasite distribution, life-history and virulence. We acknowledge the importance of horizon scanning for future invasive host–parasite introductions and note that increased screening of invasive species, both in their native and invaded ranges, will provide clarity on invasion dynamics and potential impacts.

REVIEW ARTICLE
Front. Mar. Sci., 26 February 2021 | https://doi.org/10.3389/fmars.2021.609248

Worst Invasive Species Areas Ranked in Western States

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Non-indigenous Aquatic Species (NAS) threaten our lakes, rivers, streams and oceans. Often introduced by unknowing recreational users, these harmful invasives can drastically alter aquatic ecosystems, foul equipment, and negatively impact native species. Invasive species are slowing spreading throughout the United States, Wildlife Forever and partners with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and United States Geological Survey (USGS) decided to take a look at the current and potential future impact of NAS in the West.

Invasive Species Infestations by Congressional District. Congressional Districts west of the 100th meridian ranked by Infestation Score. The higher the score, represented by a dark red color, the more infested the area is by Nonindigenous Aquatic Sp…

Invasive Species Infestations by Congressional District. Congressional Districts west of the 100th meridian ranked by Infestation Score. The higher the score, represented by a dark red color, the more infested the area is by Nonindigenous Aquatic Species.

Flowering Rush Webinar: Phenology, Genetic Variability, and Management

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Flowering Rush: Phenology, Genetic Variability, and Management

Dr. John Madsen, USDA-ARS; Dr. Bradley T. Sartain, ERDC-EL; Dr. Nate Harms, ERDC-EL 4 November 2020

First Dr. Madsen presents the phenology of Flowering Rush in two case studies that informs long-term management. Then Dr. Sartain looks at field trials that evaluate water exchange processes and herbicide efficacy on the effective management of flowering rush. Lastly, Dr. Harms looks at genotype differences between introduced populations that may lead to variation in economic or ecological impacts between invaded areas and finishes with genotype-specific management.

View here: https://corpslakes.erdc.dren.mil/employees/invasive/exchange.cfm?Option=Webinar&Type=Past&CoP=invasive&Id=582&ICS=No

Living on the Water: An updated guide for floating home owners and marina managers

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West Multnomah Soil & Water Conservation District and Scappoose Bay Watershed Council recently announced the publication of the newly updated Living on the Water: A Guide for Floating Home Owners and Marina Managers.
 
The 46‐page guide includes information on floating home safety, construction, repair and maintenance, particularly as these activities may affect water quality. It also includes information on enhancing aquatic habitat, living with and enjoying wildlife, and managing invasive species. Highlights of the guide include:

  • Fire prevention to protect homes and moorages, and emergency response tips

  • General facility management practices to reduce environmental impacts

  • How to keep belongings from blowing away

  • The benefits of native vegetation, including less work

  • Invasive species to look out for - see pages 27-31

  • Local wildlife – what to expect and how to better enjoy wildlife

  • Where moorage managers and homeowners can go for more information – including 6 pages of online resources

You can  download the complete guide from West Multnomah Soil & Water Conservation District’s website. Limited printed copies are available upon request. Contact us at info@wmswcd.org to request a copy.

Wildlife Forever - Rapid Response Kit for Aquatic Invasive Species

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Wildlife Forever is committed to helping communities slow the spread of Aquatic Invasive Species and empowering best management practices for wise public use of America’s natural resources. With this new rapid response kit, Wildlife Forever gives agencies, organizations and communities across the country the tools to quickly communicate about an infestation. This kit will help you:

  • Send out an urgent warning that a local lake has been infested with a specific Aquatic Invasive Species

  • Educate the affected public as to what they can – and should – do in this event to help prevent the further spread of the species

Download the Rapid Response Kit, usable press releases, videos, radio PSAs, and more here.

Pacific Ballast Water Group

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The Pacific Ballast Water Group (PBWG) serves as a coordinating body to share information and formulate consensus solutions on ballast water management and research issues of common concern to regulators, managers, scientists and the shipping industry on the West Coast. The mission of the PBWG is to promote development and implementation of safe, economical, effective management of aquatic nuisance species associated with West Coast shipping. Visit the Western Aquatic Invasive Species Network webpage to learn more.