Molecular analysis has confirmed that an unusual seaweed that wrapped itself around an anchor in the Bay of Islands late last year was not the potentially invasive species known as mermaid's hair.
That's good news for Northland Regional Council biosecurity experts, but biosecurity manager — marine and strategy Sophia Clark said although the weed turned out to be the non-invasive Chaetomorpha linum, authorities were thrilled that it had been reported.
"It's still an unusual-looking seaweed, and we're really pleased the incident reporter took the time to let both us and the Ministry for Primary Industries know," she said.
The council had noticed an increase in members of the public reporting things they believed were unusual or could be a known marine pest over recent months, the seaweed coming up with an anchor off Roberton Island.
"Marine pests have the potential to cause a great deal of environmental, economic and other harm across multiple fronts, so any reports that draw them to our attention are extremely helpful, even if it ends up being a false alarm," she said.
