Preventing the introduction and spread of Invasive Alien Species (IAS) is widely recognised as the most effective approach for protecting Europe’s biodiversity. Swift communication and coordination among EU Member States are essential for effective prevention.
To support the implementation of the EU Regulation 1143/2014 on IAS, the Joint Research Centre (JRC) has establish NOTSYS, a dedicated alert system. This system allows Competent Authorities of EU Member States to report new detections of the 114 IAS of Union concern, triggering automatic email alerts to all EU MS Competent Authorities.
These alerts provide critical information, including, date and location of the detection, population density, measures taken, and their effectiveness. This timely information enables Competent Authorities to adapt and focus their national surveillance activities, ultimately strengthening Europe's defense against IAS.
NOTSYS also facilitates the sharing of information on interceptions of the regulated IAS at EU borders, helping to identify and manage introduction pathways.
Recent notifications from Member States highlight the alarming spread of terrestrial flatworms, which pose a significant threat to soil biodiversity. The species Obama nungara have been reported by Germany, Slovakia and Finland, while Bipalium kewense was reported by Austria and Sweden. These new records are being added to the EASIN geodatabase, enhancing our understanding of the distribution and spread of these invasive species.
For more information on invasive flatworms, including factsheets and management guidance, please visit: EASIN - European Alien Species Information Network - Homepage (https://easin.jrc.ec.europa.eu/easin)
The photo shows the four species of terrestrial flatworms included in the EU Regulation: Obama nungara, Arthurdendyus triangulatus , Bipalium kewense, Platydemus manokwari.