SEMINAR: Biodiversity, Biosecurity and Management of Fouling Assemblages in Western Australia

Biological invasions are emerging as one of the greatest threats to coastal ecosystems worldwide. Increases in international shipping as well as other anthropogenic vectors have escalated the extent and frequency of species transfer around the world and coastal hardening through ports and other infrastructure provide suitable habitat for biofouling and the establishment of non-indigenous species (NIS). Understanding the ecology of fouling assemblages and NIS is increasingly important for managing the impacts of human activities on marine biodiversity. Using a tool originally designed as an early warning system for target NIS, I present the first quantitative investigation of the spatial and temporal patterns of fouling assemblages along the latitudinal gradient of the Western Australian coastline. I also examine the distribution and impact of the invasive sea squirt Didemnum perlucidum which has established and spread throughout the Swan River. Finally I will discuss some of the molecular tools that can be used in the detection and management of invasive fouling species.