The Iceland Demo

Invasive Species Reduction in Iceland

Invasive species pose significant threats to biodiversity, the economy, and public health by facilitating the spread of infectious diseases. Almost 20% of Europe’s Red Listed species are under threat from invasive organisms and the Mission Atlantic and Artic Lighthouse strives to restore ecosystems and protect biodiversity from threats.

The H2020 project ECOTIP, led by DTU, has conducted extensive mapping of Arctic biodiversity and its responses to various external pressures, including climate change and expanding commercial activities. This research is crucial for developing effective protection and restoration strategies. Building on this work, PHAROS will undertake Demo 4 in Iceland, focusing on the detection, monitoring, and control of invasive pink salmon. This effort aims to revolutionise how invasive species are managed, employing advanced detection and intervention measures.

Demo areas in Iceland are selected based on registered findings and spawning of pink salmon in the identified rivers. There will be two main study locations:

  • Eyjafjardará river: The river winds its way down the Eyjafjardar valley before reaching the Eyjafjordur fjord, stretching over some 60–70 kilometres. It is best known for its thriving population of Arctic charr (Salvelinus alpinus), a prized fish that can grow to an impressive 12 kilograms. Brown trout (Salmo trutta) and Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) also inhabit its waters, adding to the river’s rich fishing tradition. In recent years, however, pink salmon have begun appearing in greater numbers, raising concerns about their impact on the river’s delicate biodiversity and natural balance.

In this framework, PHAROS will complete the integration of improved coastal monitoring through satellite observations and augmented coastal numerical modelling tools.

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