Tag Archives: Invasive species in Spain

The Zebra mussel – Dreissena polymorpha – Mejillón cebra is a species of freshwater mussel native to the freshwater lakes of Eastern Europe and Western Asia. It gets its name from the distinctive striped pattern on its shell, which resembles the stripes on a zebra.

Zebra mussels are small, fingernail-sized mollusks that have become invasive species in many parts of the world. They have also become a significant concern in Spain, were first detected in Spanish waters in the mid-2000s and have since spread to various regions across the country and is present in over 60 reservoirs along with canal systems and irrigation channels. The consequences of these “blockages” range from the inability of a hydroelectric plant to generate power to the inability to irrigate fields when mussels invade irrigation reservoirs.

Zebra mussel invasive species in Spain — Zebra mussels filter large amounts of water, which can alter the natural balance of aquatic ecosystems and negatively impact native species. Their accumulation on submerged structures like pipes, dams, and water intake systems can also lead to clogging and increased maintenance costs for infrastructure.

Introduction of Zebra mussel – Dreissena polymorpha – Mejillón cebra into Spain?

The introduction of zebra mussels in Spain is believed to have occurred through the transportation of contaminated boats or equipment, particularly in water bodies connected to international shipping routes. (They may have arrived in the water inside a boat’s engine or in larval form as live bait for fishing) Once established, zebra mussels have the ability to reproduce rapidly and colonize new areas, leading to their widespread distribution. It is one of the most concerning invasive exotic species due to its almost unstoppable expansion, with a million eggs laid each year, causing environmental and huge economic damage.

Efforts to control and manage zebra mussels in Spain include monitoring their spread, implementing measures to prevent further introductions, and developing strategies for their removal. These efforts involve collaborations between government agencies, researchers, and stakeholders to mitigate the impacts of this invasive species.

Part of their successful expansion in Spain is that they require water temperatures of 13 to 14 degrees Celsius for reproduction, which occurs “two or three months a year” in their place of origin but can happen “six or seven months” here in the warmer climate of the iberian peninsular.

In less than 20 years, zebra mussels have gone from being present in just one reservoir to the entire national territory and the challenge now lies in containing their expansion. Complete eradication of the Zebra mussel – Dreissena polymorpha – Mejillón cebra is doubtful.

See a full list of invasive species in Spain here: https://wildsideholidays.co.uk/introduced-and-invasive-species-in-spain/

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I’ve been living in this lovely area of Western Andalucia for the last 20 years or so and dedicate most of my time to the running of English language tourist information websites for the towns of Cádiz, Ronda, Grazalema, the famous or infamous Caminito del Rey, and also Wildside Holidays, which promotes sustainable and eco-friendly businesses running wildlife and walking holidays in Spain.

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Triumph Over Invasive Species: Bullfrog Successfully Eradicated from Ebro Delta Region

August 31, 2023 clive Leave a comment

In a remarkable turn of events, the once-menacing bullfrog population in the Ebro delta natural park has been successfully eradicated. This victory against an invasive species marks a significant achievement in conservation efforts and safeguarding local ecosystems.

Previously, the presence of bullfrog tadpoles had triggered concerns among experts about the potential harm they could inflict on the delicate balance of the Ebro Delta ecosystem. Classified as one of the world’s most harmful invasive species, the American bullfrog’s voracious appetite and lack of natural predators made it a serious threat to native wildlife.

Triumph Over Invasive Species: Bullfrog Successfully Eradicated from Ebro Delta Region

The bullfrog, distinct from its African counterpart, had gained notoriety in Spain, much like other invasive species such as the zebra mussel, coypu, and Kramer’s parrot. Researchers from the Institute of Evolutionary Biology of Barcelona had raised the alarm upon discovering tadpoles of this species in the region. This discovery marked the first evidence of the bullfrog’s successful reproduction in the area.

Measuring up to 460 millimeters and weighing around 1 kg, this giant amphibian had posed a formidable challenge. Its diet, comprising snakes, fish, birds, rodents, frogs, tadpoles, bats, insects, and crustaceans, was a stark contrast to the diets of native amphibians in Spain. The absence of evolutionary adaptations to counter such predation made the bullfrog a unique and severe threat to the local biodiversity.

However, determined conservation efforts turned the tide. Through a combination of strategic measures, including habitat management, controlled removal, and public awareness campaigns, the bullfrog population has been successfully eliminated from the Ebro Delta. This accomplishment showcases the resilience of dedicated researchers, conservationists, and local communities in protecting their natural environment.

The success story began with a focus on addressing the root causes of the bullfrog’s introduction. Frog farming and its popularity as a pet were identified as key pathways. After farms breeding these frogs in captivity were established between 1987 and 1990, their subsequent prohibition in 2013 marked a critical step. Despite challenges posed by illegal trade, the persistent efforts of authorities and environmental organizations played a pivotal role in curbing the bullfrog’s spread.

While sporadic sightings of bullfrog specimens had occurred in the past, the eradication of bullfrogs from the Ebro Delta is a triumph. The absence of an established bullfrog population now ensures that the delicate balance of the ecosystem can be restored. Lessons from this success can serve as inspiration for tackling other invasive species and conserving biodiversity worldwide.

In conclusion, the successful eradication of the bullfrog population from the Ebro Delta stands as a testament to the power of determined conservation efforts. This achievement reinforces the importance of proactive measures, collaborative initiatives, and the commitment of individuals in preserving the natural world.