Asian clam not present in canal say experts

Scientists responding to reports of sightings of the highly invasive Asian clam (Corbicula fluminea) in the canal near Pollagh in Offaly say thorough examinations of the area have concluded with no clams being detected. According to a spokesperson from Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) the body was informed of a reported sighting by Waterways Ireland on Wednesday, May 23. The Asian clam was first reported in Ireland in the lower River Barrow in 2010. Already it has caused serious ecological problems for the infested sections of that river. Speaking last Friday, an IFI spokesperson said reports of sightings in this area were taken extremely seriously. "Because of the obvious threat posed for biodiversity and navigation by this non-native species, scientists from the Invasive Species Section in Swords immediately implemented IFI's Rapid Reaction Protocol and put in place plans to intensively survey the Grand Canal in the vicinity of the reported sighting," an IFI statement said. A detailed boating survey of the Grand Canal in the area was conducted by IFI scientific staff on Thursday, May 24, covering a 15km stretch of the canal between the 31st and 32nd locks. "Hundreds of individual sites within this canal section were examined in detail for the presence of Asian clams," the statement read. "Canal substrate from the margins and from the mid-channel area was collected and thoroughly examined to determine if adult or juvenile clams were present." However all surveys showed no clams present according to the IFI. Nonetheless, IFI are now requesting all canal users to be aware of the possible presence of Asian clams and immediately report any sightings by calling 1890 347424 or emailing info@fisheriesireland.info.