Invasive Species

Marine Environment 25-Jul-2023

Why We Should Be Cautious with Invasive Mussels

Zebra mussels are an invasive, fingernail-sized mollusk that is native to fresh waters in Eurasia. Their name comes from the dark zig-zagged stripes on each shell. The zebra mussel [Pallas, 1771] is a shellfish named for the striped pattern of its shell. This mussel is typically found attached to objects, surfaces, or other mussels by threads extending from underneath the shells….

Marine Environment 20-Sep-2019

Ballast Water Management and The Importance of Proper Handling

During the 147th Maritime Forum, I had the opportunity to listen to a very informative presentation by MARINA Director Marc Anthony Pascua regarding Ballast Water Management. The presentation outlined its importance with regard to international transportation of Invasive Aquatic Organisms through commercial shipping. This presentation prompted me to further explore the issue, and write this article. With the introduction of…