Journal of Marine Science: Research & Development
Open Access

Abstract

The introduction of Invasive Aquatic Species (IAS) by various forms of human activities is one of the greatest threats to the world?s water bodies. Shipping, aquaculture, ornamental and aquarium trade are some of the vectors responsible for the proliferation of invasive aquatic species. IAS is a form of marine pollution and unlike other forms of marine pollution the impacts of the spread of IAS are most often irreversible. The aim of this paper was to provide an overview of the initiatives that had been formulated by the government of Cameroon to address the threats posed by Invasive Aquatic Species (IAS). It also prescribed realizable recommendations that could be employed to save the Atlantic Coast of Cameroon from the harm of IAS. The paper tried to look into the burning universal debate of weather policies can help devoid the marine world from IAS. The work seek to add to the existing literature on how IAS can be prevented where it has not invaded, managed where it already exist and minimize where it is increasing. The methodology adopted for data collection was quantitative research and a hypothetic-deductive approach was also used. There were purposeful sampling of documentations and interviews conducted with key and resource persons. The scope of study area was the Atlantic Coast of Cameroon covering Douala, Limbe and Kribi. The paper argued that there is a need for strong and effective policies to educate people on the dangers of IAS on the marine environment. Nevertheless, the paper concluded that: 1. IAS could be minimizing with increased awareness of the potential dangers posed by IAS through its pathways and vectors. 2 Develop and implement a national framework in order to mitigate minimize and eventually eradicate the spread of IAS. 3. The paper maintained that the Atlantic Coast of Cameroon should not be abused but preserved and utilized. The research was of prime importance because it numbered the IAS on the coast of Cameroon and their impacts. Examined how national policies could help curb environmental problems and provided a blue print to deal with IAS threats on the Atlantic Coast of Cameroon. It also aimed at increasing public and political awareness of the threats of IAS and further reduced the transfer of IAS to the region?s marine environment. This work will definitely not solve the problem of IAS but will raise awareness on the abusive usage of the ocean.

Biography

Baninla Yvette is a student of Xiamen University. He is currently pursuing his Master?s degree in the College of Environment and Ecology. His specialty is in Marine Affairs and he is interested in the research of Ocean and Coastal Management.