The pest can outcompete natives for food and space, and disrupt local marine life, aquaculture and fisheries. Photo: Supplied / Northland Regional Council
An invasive marine pest has been found in Otago, prompting calls for boat owners to be extra vigilant.
National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA) divers found evidence of Mediterranean fanworm during a routine pest survey at the multi-purpose wharf in Port Chalmers last week.
The Otago Regional Council said they were removed but more surveys would confirm whether there were more in the area.
The large worms have a long, leathery, pale brown tube that attaches to hard surfaces. They can outcompete natives for food and space, and disrupt local marine life, aquaculture and fisheries.
Council environmental implementation manager Libby Caldwell said the council was working with Port Otago and Biosecurity New Zealand to ensure a coordinated response.
The large worms have a long, leathery, pale brown tube that attaches to hard surfaces (file image). Photo: Supplied / Northland Regional Council
"These recent findings underline the continued risk of reintroduction of this pest, especially given the high level of vessel traffic in Otago Harbour," Caldwell said.
"We're urging all boat owners, commercial and recreational, to be vigilant.
"Reporting any sightings early is a simple yet crucial step in preventing the spread of this invasive species and protecting Otago's marine environment."
A small number of Mediterranean fanworms were found and removed from Port Chalmers in 2019.
Further up the coast, Environment Canterbury has recently detected them at new sites in Whakaraupō Lyttleton Harbour.
Mediterranean fanworm is an unwanted species and it is illegal to move the pest around or remove it without a permit.