Displaying items by tag: Blue Crab

12th March 2021

Public Urged To Be On the Lookout for Invasive Blue Crab

The blue crab found on Dollymount Strand on 15 February

Beach walkers have been urged to keep a lookout for invasive blue crab after a recent sighting in Dublin Bay.

As the Irish Examiner reports, the National Biodiversity Day Centre says a specimen was found on Dollymount Strand on 15 February, with a claw from the same species found on the same beach this past Tuesday (9 March).

It marks the first sighting of the crab, which is native marine wildlife on the US east coast, in Irish waters — though it has become established as an invasive species in the Mediterranean.

It’s as yet unknown whether the blue crab originated from the food trade, came as a stowaway in a ship’s hull or arrived by other means.

But the situation has prompted a call for vigilance by the public walking in coastal areas around Ireland — and for photographic evidence of any possible sighting.

The Irish Examiner has more on the story HERE.

Published in Marine Wildlife

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About Foyle Port

Foyle Port, located in the North West region of Northern Ireland, is estimated to handle around 2 million tonnes of cargo per year, with a trade value of approximately £1 billion. The port plays a crucial role in facilitating the import of essential agri-products, supporting around 20,000 farms in the region, as well as various local business sectors such as fuel/oil and construction industries. The organisation supports an estimated 1000 direct and indirect jobs.

Originally located in the bustling heart of Derry City, the Commissioners relocated the port to its current deep-water location at Lisahally in 1993. The terminal boasts an impressive 440 metres of quay and can accommodate large vessels of up to 62,000 DWT. Foyle Port is primarily a bulk port and a significant importer of essential commodities such as oil, coal, animal feed, fertiliser, and plywood, all of which are vital for the North West rural region.

Since 2003, the organisation has experienced significant growth, doubling both turnover and profit and attracting approximately £100 million of inward investment to the region. This investment has supported projects, including a fertiliser plant, an oil tank farm, and a biomass power station.

Established by Act of Parliament in 1854, the Londonderry Port & Harbour Commissioners is an independent statutory authority with a duty to develop, maintain and operate to the highest standards of efficiency, financial prudence, environmental awareness, safety, and security. The Port is independent of the Government and is self-financing. All financial surpluses are reinvested in the business for the benefit of future generations of stakeholders.