Fighting the invasive seaweed Rugulopteryx okamurae
Aimed at preserving marine biodiversity, the International Workshop on the Invasive Seaweed Rugulopteryx okamurae, held from April 7 to 10 in Málaga, Spain, highlighted the urgent need for concerted international efforts to manage the spread of this invasive species.
The workshop gathered researchers, policymakers, and stakeholders from various countries to discuss strategies for mitigating the ecological and economic impacts of R. okamurae.
Since its first appearance on the European coasts of the Strait of Gibraltar in 2015, R. okamurae has rapidly spread across the Mediterranean and Atlantic coasts, posing a significant threat to native biodiversity and local economies. The invasive seaweed homogenizes sea bottoms, reducing biodiversity and affects fisheries and tourism due to the huge production of biomass.
The workshop served as a platform for knowledge exchange towards international cooperation, emphasizing the importance of a unified approach to managing R. okamurae. Participants acknowledged that the species' presence in several European and Northern Africa countries demands a joint effort for efficient management.
The European Commission, highlighted the role of the European Alien Species Information Network (EASIN) in facilitating data sharing and collaboration among EU member states. Key discussions focused on aligning scientific research with management practices, identifying common objectives across different administrative levels, and exploring potential uses for the seaweed biomass to mitigate its impacts. The roundtable discussions underscored the necessity of transnational collaboration and the development of a European Management Plan to standardize efforts and maximize resources. Elvira Garcia Bellido, from Spain's Ministerio para la Transición Ecológica y el Reto Demográfico, highlighted the need for clear legislative procedures and biosecurity measures, calling for simple, actionable recommendations from scientists to exploit the seaweed biomass within the framework of European policies.
Looking forward, the workshop concluded with a call to strengthen communication channels among stakeholders, enhance citizen science initiatives, and leverage on existing projects to improve prevention strategies. The collaboration among countries exemplifies a proactive approach to environmental conservation, setting a precedent for managing similar invasive species in the future. As the world grapples with the challenges posed by invasive species, the Málaga workshop stands out as a beacon of hope, demonstrating that through collaboration and shared knowledge, we can protect our natural ecosystems for generations to come.
For more details, visit the official workshop page
Further info: EASIN news