Volunteer scientists uncover 'fascinating' species on Kent coastline including 'invasive' oysters

Volunteers logged more than 160 species at 9 coastal locations. Credit: Kent Wildlife Trust

Stalked jellyfish, white hedgehog sea slugs and invasive Pacific oysters have been discovered on Kent's coastline.

The fascinating discoveries have been made by Volunteer Citizen Scientists - who logged more than a hundred and sixty species at nine key locations on the coast.

The project is run by Kent Wildlife Trust who say the data's critical for protecting our marine ecosystems.

Volunteers conducted surveys at nine key locations along the Kent coast, recording more than 160 species.

Throughout 2023, 150 volunteers contributed a total of 369 hours of their time. Credit: Kent Wildlife Trust

The group identified an average of 53 species per survey, with Walpole Bay showcasing the highest species richness (79 species).

Throughout 2023 a staggering 150 volunteers contributed a total of 369 hours of their time.

Surveys spanned a diverse range of habitats, including Botany Bay in Broadstairs, Cheyney Rock in Sheerness, Epple Bay in Birchington, Joss Bay in Broadstairs, Lower Leas in Folkestone, Nayland Rock in Margate, Samphire Hoe in Dover, St Margaret’s Bay in Dover and Walpole Bay in Margate.

The project also included a special “Sea More About Seaweed Day,” led by renowned seaweed expert and volunteer Ian Tittley. This event highlighted the diversity and importance of seaweed species along the Kent coast.

  • Courtney, Shoresearch volunteer

Kent Wildlife Trust’s Max Renton said: "We are incredibly proud of the work our Shoresearch citizen scientists accomplished in 2024.

"Their dedication has provided us with invaluable data, from recording over 160 species across nine key locations to uncovering fascinating finds like stalked jellyfish at Botany Bay and green sea urchins at Walpole Bay.

“These insights not only highlight the biodiversity along the Kent coast but also emphasise the urgent need to address the growing presence of invasive species like Pacific oysters and Asian shore crabs.

"This data is critical for protecting our marine ecosystems and shaping conservation efforts for the future."

Want a quick and expert briefing on the biggest news stories? Listen to our latest podcasts to find out What You Need To Know...