INFORMATION TO FISHERMEN The Sting Winkle and Oysters Concerns have been raised in Chichester Harbour about the presence of the small winkle (Ocenebra erinacea) commonly known as the Sting Winkle or Oyster Drill. It can be distinguished from other winkle species by its angular whorls and can grow up to 50mm long x 25mm wide. This winkle is a predator of oysters and other molluscs including cockles and clams. It feeds by drilling a hole in the oysters shell; it softens the shell with a chemical, uses an accessory boring organ to rasp a hole, then injects a poison inside which stresses or kills the oyster; the shell opens and it begins to feed. This species has been prevalent in the Solent for several years but it is now being seen in Chichester Harbour. It is possible that it is being transported into the Harbour when the decks of fishing vessels and fishing gear (parlour, inkwell and whelk pots) are being cleaned thus, washing the sting winkles overboard. Fishermen are advised not to deposit these sting winkles inside the Harbour. Alternatively, fishers are advised to clean their pots and deck outside of the Harbour, or collect any such debris from the pots/deck and deposit it out at sea during their next fishing trip.
Sussex Sea Fisheries Committee, Unit 6, Highdown House, Shoreham Airport, Shoreham-by-Sea, West Sussex. BN43 5PB. Tel: 01273 454407 Fax: 01273 454408 Notice issued: August 2008 |
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