The Canadian Aquatic Invasive Species Network (CAISN)

CHALLENGE

Global human population growth along with increased international travel and trade has led to the introduction and transportation of aquatic invasive species (AIS) throughout Canada. Once established, AIS pose a leading threat to the biodiversity of our lake, river and marine ecosystems. The CAISN network is made up of specialists who are conducting Canada’s first comprehensive study to examine and identify existing invasions with the goal to predict and prevent new aquatic invasive species from harming Canada’s valued aquatic ecosystems.

NETWORK STRUCTURE

CAISN spans the nation, bringing together 34 researchers from 21 partner universities and five federal laboratories. Our research incorporates broad taxonomic, ecosystem, geographic, mathematic and philosophical diversity. CAISN represents the first attempt by any country to marry the various skills and interests of academia, government, industry, and non-government organizations with the aim to assist affected industries, develop government policy and advance invasion science and technology. In addition we will train up to 50 graduate and postdoctoral students with specialization in invasive species. Our Scientific Committee will oversee the research projects and the Board of Directors will ensure all partners and stakeholders are represented.

RESEARCH OBJECTIVES

Prominent marine and lake ecologists, modelers, mathematicians and statisticians will build and test tools needed for: Identification and qualification of vectors and pathways that transport AIS to Canada as well as the vectors of secondary spread within Canada. Assessment of the physical, chemical and biological factors that affect the establishment success of AIS. Development of risk assessment models of AIS that will allow us to predict which species are most likely to invade, consequences of the invasion and where intervention may be needed.

OUTCOMES

CAISN will be the scientific lead that will result in the implementation of government policy ensuring regulation of preventative measures to minimize the spread of AIS in Canada’s aquatic ecosystems. CAISN will provide the science-based results needed by aquaculture and shipping industries for the development of technical innovations to reduce new invasions in Canada’s marine and freshwater ecosystems. Through existing and new partnerships CAISN will contribute to Canada’s environmental outreach programs and will communicate results to the public. CASIN research will increase the visibility of Canada's collaborative efforts to address and resolve AIS issues. The coordinated approach and impact of our studies will be recognized as leading-edge both nationally and internationally.


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