Solutions Invasive species in the Sloehaven, Vlissingen

On behalf of the NVWA, BioMon partner Naturalis and GiMaRIS have researched genetic detection of exotics in the port of Vlissingen. To this end, water samples, soil samples, scrape samples from quays and poles and vegetated PVC sheets (fouling plates) were investigated. Invasive species can cause shifts in our coastal waters.

Harbors and marinas are not only a hotspot for shipping, but also for stowaways that are transported unnoticed. They could be attached to the hull (biofouling) or part of the ballast water. Dutch harbors are yearly monitored for invasive alien species using traditional methods like Rapid Assessments Surveys and SETL-plates, according to the OSPAR / HELCOM protocol. In this pilot study we want to compare the results of traditional sampling with metabarcoding results from water samples (eDNA) and sediment samples (bulk samples), in order to determine the added value of a genetic approach. All samples are tasks at the Sloehaven in Vlissingen. Partners are Naturalis and GiMaRIS. This study is funded by the Ministry of Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality.

For more information contact Berry van der Hoorn.