Invasive worm species found on boats

Fri, 13 Oct 2023

An invasive non-native (INNS) worm species has been discovered on two boats in Ramsey after they were removed from the water for cleaning and maintenance.

The boat-crane operator alerted the Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture (DEFA) last week after noticing an unusual growth on the boats’ hulls and propellers.

Both had been recently transported from Peel Marina to Ramsey for winter storage.

DEFA’s marine scientists took samples and subsequent investigations, including consultation with external experts, revealed the species is the Australian or trumpet tubeworm (Ficopomatus enigmaticus).

The southern hemisphere species is a fast-growing, colonising tubeworm that can cause problems for boaters by attaching itself to man-made surfaces by developing thick layers of calcareous tubes. They can also pose a risk to the environment and biodiversity in particular areas, and may be difficult to eradicate and control.

Due to the potential impact on ports and marinas, DEFA is working closely with the Department of Infrastructure’s Harbours team to develop a coordinated response.

Boat owners can help protecting the spread by:

• Check your equipment, boat, and clothing after leaving the water for mud, aquatic animals or plant material.
• Clean everything thoroughly as soon as you can, paying attention to areas that are damp or hard to access. Use hot water if possible.
• Dry everything for as long as you can before using elsewhere as some invasive plants and animals can survive for over two weeks in damp conditions.

DEFA will continue to respond to requests to help identify unusual or potentially invasive species, but relies on reporting from the public and the DoI.

Reports of potential invasive species should be emailed to fisheries@gov.im with good quality pictures if possible.

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