State biologists discover spiny water flea, an invasive species, in Winnipesaukee – New Hampshire Bulletin
State biologists discover spiny water flea, an invasive species, in ... New Hampshire Bulletin
sdgtalks
State Biologists Discover Invasive Aquatic Species in New Hampshire
The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services has reported the discovery of a new invasive aquatic species in Lake Winnipesaukee. The spiny water flea, a microscopic water animal native to Europe and Asia, has been found in the deepest section of the lake known as “the Broads” in Gilford, as well as in the Alton and Wolfeboro portions of the lake.
Potential Impact on Fish Populations
The spiny water flea does not pose a direct threat to humans but can have negative effects on fish populations. According to the agency, this invasive species can alter the plankton community, which in turn can influence fish populations and disrupt aquatic food webs. Native fish species that rely on zooplankton may be outcompeted by the spiny water flea at high densities.
Preventing Spread and Mitigation Efforts
State biologists emphasize the importance of preventing the spread of the spiny water flea to protect native fish species and maintain the ecological balance of Lake Winnipesaukee. As there are no effective treatments to eliminate this invasive species once established, residents are urged to follow the guidelines outlined in state law:
- Clean, drain, and dry all water vessels after leaving a body of water.
- Dry out any items that have come in contact with water for at least five days.
These preventive measures are crucial in reducing the risk of further spread and establishment of the spiny water flea in other areas.
Anticipating the Arrival of the Invasive Species
State biologists had been monitoring the potential introduction of the spiny water flea to Lake Winnipesaukee for nearly a decade. The arrival of invasive species to new locations is a common occurrence, and boater traffic was identified as a potential pathway for the introduction of this species. In 2016, a monitoring program was initiated to track and assess the presence of the spiny water flea. Despite the anticipation, the confirmation of its presence in New Hampshire is still surprising and disappointing to researchers.
Link to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
- SDG 14: Life Below Water – The discovery and management of invasive species in Lake Winnipesaukee align with SDG 14’s target to prevent and significantly reduce marine pollution and the impacts of invasive species on marine ecosystems.
- SDG 15: Life on Land – Protecting native fish species and preserving the ecological balance of Lake Winnipesaukee contribute to SDG 15’s goal of protecting, restoring, and promoting sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems.
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 14: Life Below Water | Target 14.1: By 2025, prevent and significantly reduce marine pollution of all kinds, particularly from land-based activities, including marine debris and nutrient pollution | Indicator: Presence of invasive species in Lake Winnipesaukee |
| SDG 15: Life on Land | Target 15.8: By 2020, introduce measures to prevent the introduction and significantly reduce the impact of invasive alien species on land and water ecosystems and control or eradicate the priority species | Indicator: Identification of the spiny water flea as an invasive species |
1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?
The issues highlighted in the article are connected to SDG 14: Life Below Water and SDG 15: Life on Land.
2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?
Based on the article’s content, the specific targets that can be identified are:
- Target 14.1: By 2025, prevent and significantly reduce marine pollution of all kinds, particularly from land-based activities, including marine debris and nutrient pollution.
- Target 15.8: By 2020, introduce measures to prevent the introduction and significantly reduce the impact of invasive alien species on land and water ecosystems and control or eradicate the priority species.
3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?
Yes, there are indicators mentioned in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets:
- Indicator: Presence of invasive species in Lake Winnipesaukee (related to Target 14.1)
- Indicator: Identification of the spiny water flea as an invasive species (related to Target 15.8)
The presence of the spiny water flea, which is an invasive species, in Lake Winnipesaukee indicates the potential marine pollution and impact on aquatic ecosystems, thus measuring progress towards Target 14.1. Additionally, the identification of the spiny water flea as an invasive species highlights the need to introduce measures to prevent its introduction and reduce its impact, aligning with Target 15.8.
Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.
Source: newhampshirebulletin.com
Join us, as fellow seekers of change, on a transformative journey at https://sdgtalks.ai/welcome, where you can become a member and actively contribute to shaping a brighter future.
