Aquatic pests

What are aquatic pests?

Aquatic pests are exotic (non-native) species that can damage the natural balance of our environment.

Once transported to a new area, they can spread rapidly. Detection and containment are paramount to limiting the spread.

Aquatic pests can be:

  • fish
  • aquatic plants
  • animals (crabs, molluscs or invertebrates).

They can be found in freshwater, estuaries and marine waters.

South Australia is currently free from most invasive marine pests.

Find out more in the stop aquatic pests harming our environment brochure (PDF 3.9 MB).

Why can aquatic pests be a problem?

Aquatic pests pose a risk by:

  • competing with native species important to our economy and conservation
  • damaging our aquatic environments
  • threatening aquaculture and industrial infrastructure
  • posing health risks.

View marine pest locations and data.

What can you do to protect South Australia from aquatic pests?

Protecting the environment is everyone’s responsibility. You can play an important role in stopping non-native aquatic pests species entering and spreading in South Australia.

Report pests or illegal activity

Immediately report:

To assist with your report:

  • Record your location – screenshot your map app or use photo geotagging.
  • Note details
    • habitat (harbour, beach, rocky reef)
    • date and time
    • water depth if the organism was found under water
    • the number of suspected marine pests you saw.
  • Take photos – take close-up photos from different angles and try to include an object for reference (coin or other available item).

How to report an aquatic pest.

Don’t introduce or spread pests

Protect our environment by:

Identifying pests

View common aquatic pest species on the fishing limits search page.

View additional information about identifying pests on the marine pests website.

Report suspected exotic species

Early detection is important to stop the establishment and spread of aquatic pests. If you see an unusual freshwater or marine creature, report it immediately.

24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Fishwatch hotline: 1800 065 522 SA Fishing app
Page last reviewed: 10 Jul 2023

 


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