Invasive Marine Pest Is Taking Over Gippsland Lakes

We are urged to report any sightings


11 February 2019

Gippsland

Northern Pacific seastar picture courtesy of Wikipedia user Lycoo.

Marine pest the Northern Pacific sea-star is moving into Gippsland Lakes.

Recreational fishing peak body, VR Fish, is urging us to report any found, and ensure you wash equipment and boats when moving to different locations in the water.

The confirmed sighting of the sea-star in January was the first seen since 2015. Highly invasive and known for eating a wide range of prey, the creature is easily transported by currents and fishing equipment. People fishing who spot the Northern Pacific sea-star are asked to email a photo to marine.pest@ecodev.vic.gov.au, along with the location, date and time of the sighting. 

(Northern Pacific seastar picture courtesy of Wikipedia user Lycoo)

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