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Rainbow sea slug discovery in Cornwall highlights climate change impacts
Overview
Conservationists from The Rock Pool Project have stated that the discovery of a rainbow sea slug at Porthpean Beach in Cornwall serves as an important reminder of climate change. The species, typically found in warmer waters off Spain, Portugal, and France, is increasingly appearing on UK shores as waters warm.
Key points
- A rainbow sea slug (babakina anadoni) was found at Porthpean Beach in Cornwall by participant Luke Galpin during a Rock Pool Project event in August.
- It is the first time the species has been recorded at Porthpean Beach, although they have previously been spotted in other parts of Cornwall and the South West.
- Dr Ben Holt of The Rock Pool Project noted that the finding highlights how UK shores are changing as warming waters affect marine life.
- Rainbow sea slugs are normally native to warmer Atlantic waters near Spain, Portugal, and France, but are appearing in increasing numbers on UK coasts.