A new to mainland New Zealand red seaweed Asparagopsis taxiformis has been found at Tamaterau in Whangārei Harbour and at Iris Shoal, Kawau Island.
Asparagopsis taxiformis is considered native to the Rangitāhua/Kermadec Islands and is similar to – and can grow among – New Zealand’s red seaweed Asparagopsis armata.
As a new species, any decisions regarding control (if any) will be made by Biosecurity New Zealand in the first instance.
The seaweed was first spotted by NIWA staff during a pre-dredging exotic caulerpa survey at Iris Shoal, where it was in the water around 11m deep and mixed in with other red seaweeds.
More of it was found washed up in large amounts at Tamaterau.
Anyone spotting what they think might be Asparagopsis taxiformis outside the Whangārei Harbour should freephone the MPI’s exotic Pest and Disease Hotline on 0800 80 99 66, or use the online report form www.report.mpi.govt.nz/pest/
