Do you live near the coast? If so, why not join the Rock Pool Project and take part in the National BioBlitz 2026, a week of discovery, biodiversity recording and citizen science across the UK simply using your iNaturalist app with the chance to win exclusive prizes along the way!
During 23 – 31 May the Rock Pool Project will be focusing on recording as many invasive species along our rocky shores as possible and they need your help to build a national picture of marine life along our coasts. Invasive species sometimes arrive via ballast water released by ships or may arrive because of climate changes, they cause a threat to our ecosystems as they often outcompete many of our native species. By participating in the National BioBlitz you can contribute to the conservation of our shores and support the management of invasive species.
If you are not sure whether you can identify any invasive species, don’t worry! There is an identification guide produced by the Marine Biological Association, Natural England and The Bromley Trust to help you to familiarise yourself with some of the non-native species found on our shores, over 20 of which are considered invasive!
Taking part is easy, sign up to the National Bioblitz on the Rock Pool Project’s website where you will be given all the information needed to participate. The Rock Pool Project wants to cover as much of the UK coast as possible and there are bonus points for being the first to record in a new location with exclusive prizes to be won if you gain the overall highest score or highest score in your region. There will also be expert webinars running throughout the week.
We look forward to seeing your discoveries, good luck!