top of page

Marine Invasive Species

Huntsman Marine Science Centre recently secured funding from the Department of Fisheries and Oceans Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention Fund to study the distribution and spread of the invasive colonial tunicate ‘sea vomit’ in the Bay of Fundy.

What is sea vomit?

Sea vomit (Didemnum vexillum) is an invasive colonial sea squirt (a type of marine animal). Native to Japan, it is not naturally found in Canadian waters. When introduced, sea vomit can harm the environment and impact local economies. Sea vomit has spread across the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, posing a threat to marine ecosystems.

Why is sea vomit a problem?

Sea vomit grows rapidly and forms large mats. It overgrows native species and can stop their larvae from settling on the seabed. This can include larvae of commercially important species such as scallops. It can be spread through introduction in ballast water, on vessel hulls and marine equipment. It can also spread through fragmentation by mobile gear and weather. The cold water temperatures in the Bay of Fundy have limited its spread but warming seas mean that it is more likely to thrive.

Huntsman Marine Project lead Dr Claire Goodwin explains ‘Although scientists recorded sea vomit in the Bay of Fundy in 2013 and 2014, we thought it had died out. But recent SCUBA surveys by our dive team and DFO drop camera surveys in deeper water found extensive populations around Deer Island. This species could severely impact both local marine life and industries. We urgently need more information on its presence in the Bay of Fundy'.

How will we study sea vomit?

Huntsman will partner with Coastal Action, Passamaquoddy Recognition Group, Fundy North, Fisheries and Oceans Canada and the University of New Brunswick for the three-year study.
The team will use a suite of techniques to establish the current distribution and invasion pathways of this harmful species. These include SCUBA surveys, Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) surveys, collection of specimens from fishers, monitoring using Environmental DNA (eDNA), and specialised genetic techniques to examine invasion pathways.

We will also be looking for other marine invasives species through expert marina surveys and citizen science monitoring.

Huntsman Marine Project lead Dr Claire Goodwin explains ‘Although scientists recorded sea vomit in the Bay of Fundy in 2013 and 2014, we thought it had died out. But recent SCUBA surveys by our dive team and DFO drop camera surveys in deeper water found extensive populations around Deer Island. This species could severely impact both local marine life and industries. We urgently need more information on its presence in the Bay of Fundy'.

How will we study sea vomit?

Huntsman will partner with Coastal Action, Passamaquoddy Recognition Group, Fundy North Fishermen’s Association, Fisheries and Oceans Canada and the University of New Brunswick for the three-year study.

The team will use a suite of techniques to establish the current distribution and invasion pathways of this harmful species. These include SCUBA surveys, Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) surveys, collection of specimens from fishers, monitoring using Environmental DNA (eDNA), and specialised genetic techniques to examine invasion pathways.

coastalaction-blue-circle-logo.png
fnfa-logo.jpg
SKUTIK_logo_colour.jpg
Hunstman_Logo_2018.jpg
UNB-e1660153008221.png
DFO Logo.jpg

We will also be looking for other marine invasives species through expert marina surveys and citizen science monitoring.

How can I identify Sea Vomit?

​

  • Sea vomit is cream or pale yellow.

  • It has channels over its surface.

  • There are often tassel-like growths.

  • It has a rubbery, not spongy texture.

Please let us know if you see Sea Vomit

- Snap a picture, keep a note of location and date spotted.
- Save a sample if possible – samples can be frozen or placed in ethanol.
- Email info and image to us at fundyseavomit@gmail.com
- Or text us at (506) 607-9148

Marine Invader Monitoring and Information Collaborative (MIMIC)
 
MIMIC is volunteer monitoring effort organized by the Massachusetts Office of Coastal Zone Management (CZM). Since MIMIC began in 2006, hundreds of trained volunteers have searched for marine invasive species at more than 140 sites from Rhode Island to Maine. As part of our project we are setting up new stations in Canada.
 

Or first MIMC monitoring station is in St Andrews. But we are hoping to expand to more sites in New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. Interested in taking part? Please get in touch.

bottom of page