Full Breakdown
Labrador Wins Animal-of-the-Year for Detecting Invasive “Sea Vomit”
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event
Sgiath, a black Labrador from the Scottish Highlands, was named the International Fund for Animal Welfare’s (IFAW) Animal of the Year after successfully locating and helping control “sea vomit,” the colloquial name for invasive carpet sea squirts. Marine ecologist Dr Texa Sim, who owns and trained Sgiath, described the project as a proof-of-concept that exceeded expectations, leading to the award.
Background & Context
Carpet sea squirts, likely introduced from Japan, were first recorded in the United Kingdom in 2008. Their gelatinous, sticky appearance has earned them the nickname “sea vomit.” The organisms can smother native marine life, deplete nutrients, and damage oyster farms and other marine infrastructure. A heatwave this summer accelerated their spread, as the species thrives in warmer water.
Key Figures & Groups
- Dr Texa Sim – Marine ecologist and owner of Sgiath, who initiated the canine training program.
- Sharon Livermore – Director of Marine Conservation at IFAW, who highlighted Sgiath’s dual role as a mountain-rescue dog and pioneer in marine-invasive-species detection.
- Institute of Marine Research – Provided scientific data on the species’ temperature tolerances and reproductive requirements.
Data & Statistics
- The sea squirt can survive water temperatures as low as –2 °C, but requires 11–14 °C to produce larvae (Institute of Marine Research).
- In colder waters, larval spread is limited, though the organism can still propagate via fragments and shipping.
- Historical impact includes near-wipeout of Portuguese oysters off France and Portugal in 1969.
Impact & Future Efforts
Sgiath’s success demonstrates a novel, animal-assisted method for early detection of marine invasives, offering a low-tech complement to traditional monitoring. IFAW’s recognition underscores the potential for expanding canine training programs to other affected coastlines. Continued research by the Institute of Marine Research on temperature thresholds will inform management strategies, while shipping regulations may be tightened to curb fragment-based dispersal.