The aim of this survey was to determine the presence or absence of the invasive marine
non-native D. vexillum on the south-west coast of Scotland. The first survey involved a
series of rapid assessment surveys of those marinas and harbours thought to be most likely
at risk from establishment (e.g. those in the Clyde). This was followed up by additional
surveys of artificial and natural substrates in the vicinity of Largs Yacht Haven. The results of
these surveys will inform SNH’s policy for dealing with this species, as well as the wider UK
policy for response. Twelve locations, including ten marinas and two harbours on the west coast of Scotland
(Figure 2.1; Table 2.1) were surveyed for D. vexillum between 1 and 5 February 2010
following a similar method described in Ashton et al. (2006) and the method adopted by the
Marine Biological Association UK in on-going surveys for this species in England (J. Bishop,
pers. comm.).
