Huntsman Marine Science Centre

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Come and learn about the sea vomit (Didemnum vexillum) and other marine invasive species. See underwater footage from our Remotely Operated Vehicle Surveys. Learn how to report your sightings of sea vomit and participate.

Description:

Huntsman Marine Science Centre recently secured funding from the Department of Fisheries and Oceans Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention Fund to study the distribution and spread of the invasive colonial tunicate sea vomit in the Bay of Fundy. Huntsman will partner with Coastal Action, Passamaquoddy Recognition Group, Fundy North, Fisheries and Oceans Canada and the University of New Brunswick for the three-year study.

What is Sea Vomit?
Sea vomit (Didemnum vexillum) is an invasive colonial sea squirt (a type of marine animal). Native to Japan, it is not naturally found in Canadian waters. When introduced, sea vomit can harm the environment and impact local economies. Sea vomit has spread across the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, posing a threat to marine ecosystems.

Why is sea vomit a problem?
Sea vomit grows rapidly and forms large mats. It overgrows native species and can stop their larvae from settling on the seabed. This can include larvae of commercially important species such as scallops. It can be spread through introduction in ballast water, on vessel hulls and marine equipment. It can also spread through fragmentation by mobile gear and weather. The cold water temperatures in the Bay of Fundy have limited its spread but warming seas mean that it is more likely to thrive.

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