Sightings of the Asian clam, Zebra mussel and other invasive species should be reported to help tackle global biodiversity loss, Minister for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity Christopher O’Sullivan has said. He made his public appeal at the start of Invasive Species Week 2026, which runs from June 22nd to June 28th.
Common invasive species found in Ireland include plants such as Rhododendron Ponticum, Himalayan Balsam, and Japanese Knotweed, and animals such as the Asian Clam, Zebra Mussel, and Asian Hornet.
Striped Invader — The distinctive shell pattern of a zebra mussel. Native to eastern Europe, the species has become one of Ireland's most widespread and problematic aquatic invasive species. Photo: Robert Aguilar
The week will also put a spotlight on existing campaigns, such as the ‘Check Clean Dry’ campaign aimed at water users, with simple actions to help prevent the spread of curly waterweed (Largarosiphon major) and a plague which affects the native white-clawed crayfish.
Invasive Species Week is an annual event organised by the National Biodiversity Data Centre to raise awareness of invasive species and encourage actions to help prevent their spread.
Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity, Christopher O’Sullivan, said that “invasive species are one of the leading drivers of biodiversity loss globally, and they’re having a huge impact in Ireland too”. “To tackle the problem, the National Parks and Wildlife Service, along with local authorities, individual landowners and community groups, are doing amazing work to remove and control them all across the country. But they need your help! ,” he said.
Clam Alert — An Asian clam photographed in freshwater habitat. The non-native species can reproduce rapidly and compete with native mussels for food and space in rivers and lakes. Photo: Peterwchen
“Keen-eyed members of the public can play a really important role in the fight against invasive species, not only by taking part in initiatives in their own local areas, but also by sharing sightings with the National Biodiversity Data Centre. Early warnings are vital in stopping these destructive plants and animals from getting a foothold in a habitat.
“That’s why I’m encouraging people to visit invasives.ie, where you’ll find lots of useful resources to help identify invasive species and an easy-to-use reporting system. Noticing invasives is the first step to controlling them, so if you’re spending time in nature this summer, familiarise yourself with what these species look like, be vigilant when you’re out and about, and use your phone to take a photo and report any sightings.”
During Invasive Species Week, organisations across Ireland, Britain, the Isle of Man, Jersey and Guernsey come together to raise awareness on invasive species and actions to prevent their spread. Events include information talks, guided walks, exhibitions and displays.
Earlier this year, NPWS signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the National Biodiversity Data Centre. This MoU establishes a new Invasive Species Bureau, which will develop a National Management Strategy for Invasive Alien Species.
To report a sighting of an invasive species, visit https://invasives.ie/reportsightings/
