Thu Sep 12 00:34:51 UTC 2024: ## Peach Blossom Jellyfish Invasion Spreads Through B.C. Waters
**Vancouver, B.C.** – A single Chinese peach blossom jellyfish, likely introduced through the aquarium trade, has triggered an invasion in British Columbia waters. Over 30 years, thousands of genetic clones of this invasive species have been spotted in 34 waterways throughout the province, raising concerns for local ecosystems.
The jellyfish, about the size of a quarter, thrive in warm water, and sightings are expected to increase as climate change warms B.C. waters. Scientists are worried about a “jelly bloom,” where the population explodes, potentially disrupting ecosystems and fisheries.
“The risk is a huge explosion in their numbers,” said Dr. Evgeny Pakhomov, a University of British Columbia biological oceanographer studying the phenomenon. “They could outcompete native species for food, consuming plankton that juvenile salmon and trout rely on.”
While the exact impact remains unknown, researchers are now focused on mapping the jellyfish’s spread and understanding its interactions with local ecosystems.
Nick Wong, from the Invasive Species Council of B.C., highlighted the importance of the study: “This is rather important fundamental work. Before we can figure out impacts or develop management plans, we need to understand where they are and how they’re spreading.”
Fisheries and Oceans Canada is not currently tracking the spread of peach blossom jellyfish. However, they conducted a screening assessment that deemed the species less risky than other plants and fish in B.C.
While originating in China, the peach blossom jellyfish has spread globally for centuries, with the earliest documented case in France during the 17th century.
Dr. Pakhomov and his team believe that the jellyfish spread through boating practices and possibly birds. Their research, published in the Canadian Journal of Zoology, has identified 85 sightings across B.C. since 1990.
Citizen scientists are encouraged to report sightings, which will help researchers map the jellyfish’s distribution and better understand its impact.
The B.C. Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship advises boaters to clean, drain, and dry water equipment to prevent further spread. They also urge the public to report any sightings of invasive species.
First Piper 