The Isle of Man has joined forces to tackle the growing economic and ecological threat posed by non-native species.

The Island is taking part in Invasive Species Week 2018 which brings together the eight members of the British Irish Council.

Environment, Food and Agriculture Minister Geoffrey Boot joined representatives from Guernsey, Ireland, Jersey, Northern Ireland, Scotland, the UK and Wales in Dublin last week.

He says: "Non-native species do not respect borders. 

"As a relatively small group of islands it is vital that all members work together to tackle the threat posed to our biosecurity and so I was pleased to take part in launching this joint initiative."

Non-native species can have a devastating effect on the environment, quickly taking-over and out-competing native flora and fauna. 

As well as the ecological impact invasive species threaten the agriculture and fishing industries.

The public are also being encouraged to do their bit by learning more about the risks non-native species pose to the Isle of Man and its waters.