Undaria pinnatifida (aquatic plant, alga)

Ecology Distribution Management Info Impact Info References and Links Contacts

General Impact The impacts of Undaria pinnatifida are not well understood and are likely to vary considerably depending on the location. Undaria can change the structure of ecosystems, especially in areas where native seaweeds are absent (Mfish, 2001). NIMPIS, 2002 states that U. pinnatifida has the potential to become a problem for marine farms by increasing labour and harvesting costs due to fouling problems on fin fish cages, oyster racks, scallop bags and mussel ropes. Heavy fouling may also restrict water flow through cages. The Department of Conservation in its brochure "Gorse of the Sea" state that undaria could foul mussel farms, salmon farms and boats. Heavy infestations of undaria may also clog marine farming machinery, slow growth of mussels and restrict water circulation.Heavy fouling of boats seriously decreases their efficiency.          Location Specific Impacts: Jersey   Competition: Undaria pinnatifida causes physical displacement of native species through over-growing and shading underlying species (Eno et al., 1997 in Varnham, 2006). Fouling: Undaria pinnatifida is a fouling agent (Eno et al., 1997 in Varnham, 2006).