M&M: monitoring of muntjac and catfish

Chinese muntjac (Muntiacus reevesi) and Black bullhead (Ameiurus melas) are invasive alien species according to European Regulation No. 1143/2014. This means that Flanders must take management measures against populations of these species.

If Chinese muntjac is not managed, the species can reach high densities, with damage mainly in the forest environment (tree, shrub and herb layer). The centre of gravity of muntjac within the European Union is in Flanders. A scenario in which Flanders becomes the source of an invasion across the Western European continent is not unthinkable. From an international point of view, as well as regional nature conservation, it is therefore important that the population is monitored and restricted as much as possible.

Black bullhead is a new species for Flanders that was recently identified in a pond complex in Limburg. However, the size of this population is unknown, making it impossible to determine appropriate management measures. To know to what extent this species occurs, an eDNA campaign of the area should be carried out. Based on this information, it can be determined how this species is dealt with.