Alien invaders to make new home in the northwest
Published Date:
04 September 2008
A SPECIES of tropical fish known to attack humans could soon be found in Londonderry's coastal waters, according to an Irish wildlife expert.
As part of a new series to be broadcast on Irish language channel TG4 later this month, environmental expert John Murphy looks at the effects accelerated global warming could have on Ireland's eco-systems.
'Alien Invaders' , examines the increasing number of new species landing on our shores because of climate changes - primarily the increase in rainfall and temperatures recorded in recent years.
"The documentary features species of wildlife many people rarely if ever encounter even though they are present all around them.
"Some of these invaders are relative newcomers to our country, while others have been with us for some time. These Aliens take the shape of birds, mammals, amphibians, reptiles, plants, fish, marine life and freshwater aquatic life forms," Murphy said.
The coast of Derry, Murphy believes will soon become home to triggerfish - a species normally found in the tropical Atlantic, Mediterranean and indo-Pacific oceans.
The triggerfish, whose angular-shaped head extends into a snout with strong jaws and sharp teeth, are known to viciously defend their nests against any intruders, including divers.
Certain species have been known to cause serious injury to anyone disturbing their nest.
The programme will also examine the effects of climate change on the country's native species - some of which are predicted to disappear altogether because of global warming.
More information on the effects of Ireland's changing climate and the series is available on see www.waxwingfilms.ie
The full article contains 297 words and appears in Londonderry Sentinel newspaper.
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Last Updated:
09 September 2008 5:50 PM
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Source:
Londonderry Sentinel
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Location:
Waterside