Marine alert network launched

FIJI could become one of the first countries in the world to have a marine invasive species detection system.

This, following the launch of a threeyear pilot project called the Pacific Islands Marine Bioinvasions Alert Network (PacMAN).

Local project manager Joape Ginigini said the overall goal of the project, spearheaded by the University of the South Pacific’s Institute of Applied Sciences (IAS) and funded by the Flanders Government (Belgium), was to ensure the preservation of biodiversity in Pacific island marine ecosystems for their use by humans.

“Invasive marine species are also threats to native plants and animals in marine areas and are most likely to be introduced via shipping and hull fouling,” he said.

Mr Ginigini said reduced native biodiversity and negative effects on the functioning of natural ecosystems could alter benefits from local services.

“This includes fresh food diversity, water quality, pathogen reduction for human health and centuries-old medicinal species, which can affect production and cultural harvests in communities.”

He acknowledged the support of local stakeholders for their commitment to the conservation of Fiji’s unique biodiversity.

“Guidance to PacMAN to date via initial stakeholder consultations has also been provided at the national level by the Biosecurity Authority of Fiji and the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji.”

Invasive marine species are also threats to native plants and animals in marine areas... – Joape Ginigini