Mytilus on the move: transport of an invasive bivalve to the Antarctic

Abstract

Increasing numbers of scientific and tourist vessels are entering the Antarctic region and have the potential to bring with them a range of organisms that are not currently found in the region. Little is known about the frequency of such introductions or the identity and survivorship of the species associated with them. In this study, we report the findings of an inspection of the sea chests of the South African National Antarctic Programme supply vessel, the SA 'Agulhas', while the vessel was in dry dock in June 2006. Large populations of a known invasive mussel, Mytilus galloprovincialis (Lamarck), were found. By extrapolating from shell length, the age of individuals was estimated, the results of which suggest that some specimens have survived transportation to the Antarctic region on multiple occasions. These findings are cause for concern and demonstrate that Antarctic research and supply vessels are important vectors for marine non-indigenous species into the region.

Distributional Patterns of Polychaetes Across the West Antarctic Based on DNA Barcoding and Particle Tracking Analyses

“…An additional factor that could influence population connectivity is anthropogenic transport (David and Loveday, 2017). We have limited knowledge of the extent or potential growth of this in the Southern Ocean however there is evidence of anthropogenic transport of non-native species into the Antarctic (Lee and Chown, 2007).…”

Temporal development of hull-fouling assemblages associated with an Antarctic supply vessel

“…It is highly likely that these vessels also transport non-indigenous species to the region (Lewis et al 2003, Tavares & De Melo 2004, Lee & Chown 2007. Unlike the rest of the world, ballast water introductions are typically of little concern in Antarctica as few vessels discharge ballast in the region, and it is prevented by the Antarctic Treaty (ATCM Resolution 3 2006).…”

Vagrant birds ashore at the Prince Edward Islands, southern Indian Ocean, from 1987 to 2009

“…Ship-assisted vagrants or 'hitch-hiking' (e.g. Lee and Chown 2007) with relief vessels is unlikely (for birds) given current stringent management controls (PEIMPWG 1996) and the likelihood that such birds would have been noticed aboard ships.…”