Lough Neagh, invasive salmon, and cross-sector collaboration on the agenda as international conference launches at Queen’s

Running from 23-27 August, ICAIS provides an opportunity for global experts to gather to address the new and emerging issues related to aquatic invasive species (AIS) in freshwater, marine, and estuarine environments.

AIS are non-native plants, animals, and other organisms that have the potential to cause harm to the local environment, economy, or health.

This year’s theme, Transcending Boundaries, aims to explore how AIS can be addressed through the integration of research and practice across habitat types, including terrestrial habitats, geographic regions, scientific and other disciplines, and research-policy interfaces.

From internationally recognised plenary speakers to, networking opportunities and research, management, and outreach presentations from leading experts, the programme for this year is plentiful.

Commenting on the significance of Queen’s hosting such a conference, Professor Jaimie Dick from the School of Biological Sciences said: “We are delighted to be working with the Invasive Species Centre, based in Canada, to co-host ICAIS at Queen’s this year. It provides a significant, international platform for the presentation of research to advance global action to limit the introduction and spread of AIS worldwide and serves as a catalyst for international collaboration on research and management projects.”

Deborah Sparks, Manager, Invasive Species Centre, Canada, and ICAIS Secretariat added: “International collaboration is essential to addressing the complex and interconnected challenges posed by aquatic invasive species. As the Secretariat of the International Conference on Aquatic Invasive Species, the Invasive Species Centre is proud to bring together researchers, practitioners, policymakers, and other key partners to share knowledge, strengthen partnerships, and advance solutions.”

Dr Ross Cuthbert from the School of Biological Sciences at Queen’s said: “This conference provides a global forum to discuss universal issues but also those on a more local level. For example, invasive zebra mussels have contributed to the deterioration of Lough Neagh through filter feeding activities that can worsen harmful algal blooms. Atlantic salmon, an iconic and economically important native species, are under increasing risk from invasive fishes and parasites. Invasive weeds can clog waterbodies and impair fishing and recreational activities, while transforming ecosystems in water and on land.”

More information, including the full programme, travel information and what to do in Belfast, visit the conference website here: https://icais.org/.