2 Invasive Species Found in S.C. Waters

[NVMojo]

CHARLESTON, S.C. (AP) - Two new invasive species have recently been found along the South Carolina coast - a massive barnacle that dwarfs those found in the state as well as the Asian green mussel, which reproduces quickly and can pose a threat to floating docks.

The barnacle is native to the Pacific coast from southern California to South America. It is so big, colonies have been known to sink navigational buoys, slow boats and clog coastal water pipes.

The barnacle, the megabalanus coccopoma, was found by a College of Charleston student doing research this fall on the Folly River. It reproduces quickly, and, although only one has been found, scientists worry it could spread.

"There's not a whole lot known about this guy," said David Knott, an biologist with the state Department of Natural Resources who deals with marine invasive species. "Cold water may be a barrier to it."

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http://www.lasvegassun.com/sunbin/stories/tech/2006/dec/19/121908492.html

[don954]

1. this is why i have to put nasty BIO resistant paint on the bottom

of my sailboat regularly, between the zebra mussels and all the slime algae we are starting to see, if i don't repaint every 2-3 years i have a floating reef..., and that's with a diver cleaning it monthly!