Are shellfish transfers a likely vector for aquatic invasive species movement from the west to the east coast of Vancouver Island?

Description

The project’s main objective is to assess shellfish transfers by the shellfish industry and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency’s biotoxin monitoring program as potential vectors for the spread of aquatic invasive species (AIS), with particular focus on the European green crab, from the west to the east coast of Vancouver Island. This project will quantify the potential risk of AIS introduction associated with current shellfish transfer protocols to inform conditions of licence and the development of scientifically-based shellfish aquaculture management zones in British Columbia. Currently, more research is needed in this area to assess the risk of this particular AIS vector. Results will help Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) Fisheries Management to make informed decisions about this potential vector for AIS spread and will allow for a scientific basis for specific shellfish culture licence conditions and for evaluating the introduction or transfer of shellfish to other areas. In addition, Dr. Hannah Stewart will lead an examination of the efficacy of cleaning procedures in preventing movement of green crab, and additional benthic invasive species, in shellfish transfers. This is the logical next step to developing a broad, effective management plan.

Findings

N/A

Publications

N/A

Multimedia

Our scientists – From coast to coast to coast – Chris Pearce

Program Name

Program for Aquaculture Regulatory Research (PARR)

Year(s)

2011 to 2014

Ecoregion(s)

Pacific: Vancouver Island West Coast

Principal Investigator(s)

Chris Pearce
3190 Hammond Bay Road, Nanaimo, BC
Tel.: (250) 756-3352
Email: Chris.Pearce@dfo-mpo.gc.ca

Hannah Stewart
4160 Marine Drive, West Vancouver, BC
Tel.: (604) 666-6659
Email: Hannah.Stewart@dfo-mpo.gc.ca

Team Member(s)

Tom Therriault, DFO-Pacific Region

Graham Gillespie, DFO-Pacific Region

Anya Dunham, DFO-Pacific Region

Lyanne Burgoyne, DFO-Pacific Region

Dan Curtis, DFO-Pacific Region