Marine eDNA sampling from submerged surfaces with paint rollers.

Environmental DNA (eDNA) analyses of species present in marine environments is the most effective biological diversity measurement tool currently available. eDNA sampling methods are an intrinsically important part of the eDNA biodiversity analysis process. Identification and development of eDNA sampling methods that are as rapid, affordable, versatile and practical as possible will improve rates of detection of marine species.

Development of a real-time PCR (qPCR) method for the identification of the invasive paddle crab (, ).

Crabs can be transported beyond their native range anthropogenic-mediated means such as aquarium trade, live seafood trade and shipping. Once introduced into new locations, they can establish persisting populations and become invasive, often leading to negative impacts on the recipient environment and native species. Molecular techniques are increasingly being used as complementary tools in biosecurity surveillance and monitoring plans for invasive species.

A long way from home: Biosecurity lessons learnt from the impact of La Niña on the transportation and establishment of tropical portunid species.

Marine ecosystems can be modified and shaped by irregular interannual variations in oceanic current patterns and temperatures, such as El Niño and La Niña. These large scale oceanic events have also been shown to influence environmental stressors such as invasive marine species (IMS). Our study indicates that there is a causative link between these climatic events, and atypical detections of native and IMS.

Distribution and Localised Effects of the Invasive Ascidian Didemnum perlucidum (Monniot 1983) in an Urban Estuary.

Didemnid ascidians are notorious marine invaders, fouling infrastructure in many ecosystems globally. However, there have been few reports of direct interactions with native species in their natural environment. The invasive colonial ascidian Didemnum perlucidum was discovered in the Swan River estuary (Western Australia) growing on the native seagrass Halophila ovalis.

Vessel Noise Promotes Hull Fouling.

Fouling of submerged vessel hulls due to the rapid settlement of algae and invertebrates is a longstanding and costly problem. It is widely thought that the presence of extensive vacant surfaces on vessel hulls is responsible for the rapid attachment and growth of biofouling. We investigated whether noise from vessels in port could also be involved in promoting the settlement and growth of common biofouling organisms on vessel hulls.

Marine biosecurity: the importance of awareness, support and cooperation in managing a successful incursion response.

Shipping is almost certainly the most prevalent human-mediated transport vector for non-indigenous species (NIS) within the marine environment. The Royal Australian Navy (RAN) has long acknowledged the importance of sound environmental management and in recent years has taken a proactive approach to addressing risks associated with marine biosecurity. primarily as a result of biofouling on Navy vessel returning from overseas operations.

Underwater video as a monitoring tool to detect change in seagrass cover.

To date seagrass monitoring has involved the removal of seagrass from its environment. In fragile or highly disturbed systems, monitoring using destructive techniques may interfere with the environment or add to the burden of disturbance. Video photography is a form of non-destructive monitoring that does not require the removal of seagrass or interference with the environment and has the potential to be a valuable tool in monitoring seagrass systems.