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Please add these species to your list of species to look out for: The sea squirt Clavelina is emerging as a concern and we are working to understand more about how it may impact our coastlines. Clavelina forms large colonies on hard surfaces (including marinas and rocky shores) and also attaches to boat hulls and there is a high chance it will have the edge over native species when it comes to competing for food and space. The sea squirt Clavelina lepadiformis has been found in several locations and is emerging as a concern because of its ability to quickly form large colonies. Clavelina oblonga is only know to be present at one site in Aotearoa; Smokehouse Bay at Aotea Great Barrier Island. Clavelina lepadiformis is distinctive: it is called a ‘lightbulb tunicate’ because with its transparent tubes and white, yellow or pink bands, it can look like a glowing light bulb. It was recently found in Gulf Harbour and has been observed on a number of vessel hulls in regions outside of the known established populations – giving rise to concerns that it may be spread by moving vessels. Download the Clavelina Fact Sheet here  Photo credits: Clavelina lepadiformis (c) S Happy, Auckland Council. Clavelina oblonga (c) C Woods, NIWA
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