The first UK records of the purple fan-worm, Bispira polyomma Giangrande & Faasse, 2012 (Annelida: Sabellidae)

Abstract

The sabellid polychaete Bispira polyomma Giangrande & Faasse, 2012 was found during summer–autumn 2021 in substantial numbers in two adjacent marinas in Plymouth, SW England. These are apparently the first UK reports, coming over a decade after the species’ discovery and description, as a presumed non-native, in the SW Netherlands. Further morphological details of the species and notes on variation between individuals are provided. It seems probable that records of Bispira fabricii in Le Havre commencing in 2010, and at other sites on the French north coast, also relate to B. polyomma. An apparent association with marinas and ports suggests roles for recreational boats and commercial shipping in the dispersal of this species.