Work Package 1 uses Artificial Intelligence to improve how we detect, understand, and manage invasive alien species in aquatic environments. By integrating data from global and regional sources like EASIN, AquaNIS, WRIMS, OBIS and others, WP1 consolidates key information on species biological traits, distributions, and environmental tolerances. Analyzing current patterns of invasive species introduction and spread, this Work Package aims to better understand and predict future threats. The innovative use of AI will further streamline and enhance the prediction and management of invasions, offering more accurate and efficient biosecurity measures.
Work Package 1 also applies innovative risk modeling, to identify high-risk sources, pathways and anticipate changes driven by global trade and climate shifts. In parallel, it explores eco-friendly technologies to reduce biofouling on ships—a major vector for species spread—through nature-inspired, non-toxic coatings. Together, these efforts will equip decision-makers with powerful tools for early detection and smarter prevention.
Work Package 1 Deliverables:
2026 Updates
Our 2026 roadmap includes launching the GuardIAS Intelligence Analyst System (G.I.A.S.) beta version to automate how we gather and harmonize ecological data from global databases and literature. The team will also complete the integration of datasets from EASIN, AquaNIS, and WRiMS to ensure seamless across-platforms data exchange.
I am particularly excited to explore innovative AI-driven solutions that enhance data accessibility and integration for invasive alien species (IAS) management, tapping into overlooked pathways to better understand IAS spread and improve early detection, harnessing advanced MRIO modeling for forecasting future IAS invasion patterns. I hope the outputs from these tasks will help Europe to stay ahead in aquatic biosecurity amidst shifting trade routes and climate change.
Collaborating with an exceptional team of experts across disciplines—from data science, social science to marine ecology—is truly inspiring. Together, we’re not just filling knowledge gaps, but actively shaping a smarter, integrated, and future-proof biosecurity system for Europe’s aquatic environments.
As someone deeply involved in molecular surveillance, I’m particularly intrigued by the eDNA-focused work in Work Package 2. The potential of advancing the eDNA approaches for detecting and monitoring IAS is immense—from refining sampling techniques to developing novel assays and data pipelines. It’s a rapidly evolving field, and I’m excited about the opportunity to contribute and collaborate with the Work Package 2 team to push these innovations forward.
In Work Package 1, I’m especially hopeful that the AI-driven tool we’re developing for integrating and querying IAS data will have lasting impact. By streamlining access to critical information and enhancing risk assessment workflows, it can become a cornerstone for smarter, faster decision-making in biosecurity. I also see great potential in improved biosecurity risk modelling—helping us anticipate and respond to future invasion threats before they happen.
“This project is not just about managing invasive species today—it’s about developing a proactive approach that anticipates future ecological challenges, ensuring robust ecosystems and sustainable marine environments for generations to come”
“For over 35 years, since I first began studying non-indigenous species, I have dreamed of tools that could reveal the ‘Big Picture’ of the transfer, spread, and impacts of invasive aquatic species. Thanks to advances in new technologies, the GuardIAS project now offers an outstanding opportunity to make that vision a reality.”
Anastasija is a marine scientist with a broad expertise in aquatic ecology, ecology of biological invasions and the development and assessment of molecular tools for monitoring and surveillance.
Anastasija is a co-founder and Lead Scientist of Sequench Ltd (Nelson, New Zealand), specializing in molecular research and services as well as development of optimised sampling solutions for eDNA.
In 2023, she was elected a President of the newly established Southern eDNA Society (SeDNAs), which aims to promote science and industry collaboration to advance best practice eDNA methods and their wider adoption nature research and conservation.
Marine biologist with over 40 years of experience in temperate seas and the Arctic. His research focuses on climate change, human impacts, and the spread of invasive alien species. He has pioneered international tools such as AquaNIS and other information system on IAS, IAS impact assessment and bioinvasion indicators.
