A waterproof identification card featuring several known or likely invasive species in Tampa Bay is being offered to divers, fishermen and others who want to serve as “Eyes On The Bay.”

The laminated dive card provides photos and basic information about 8 invasive species that already are found in Tampa Bay and other Florida waters, or are likely to arrive here in the near future. Existing invaders include the Asian green mussel and the Australian spotted jellyfish. Potential invaders include Chinese mitten crab and caulerpa taxifolia, a toxic species of algae.

Non-native plants and animals released into Florida’s environment cause millions of dollars in damage each year. Economic costs include clogged water intake pipes and machinery, and fouled boat hulls and propellers. Environmental impacts include a dramatic loss of bio-diversity as the invaders (with no natural predators in their new home) outcompete more beneficial native plants and wildlife.

The dive card asks those who are in or on the water frequently to look out for the listed species, and to report sightings to an 800 number or a website maintained by the U.S. Geological Survey. Timely reporting of sightings is important both to track the spread of existing invasive plants and animals, and to prevent the spread of new intruders.

The card was developed by the Tampa Bay Estuary Program as part of its “Eyes On The Bay” program, with assistance from Florida Sea Grant and the University of Central Florida. To obtain your dive card, contact Nanette Holland at (727) 893-2765 or e-mail nanette@tbep.org.