Objectives

The primary objective of this tender is to appoint experienced service provider(s) to conduct annual biofouling monitoring across multiple South African ports (Richards Bay, Durban, Ngqura, Port Elizabeth, Mossel Bay, Cape Town, and Saldanha) over a period of three (3) years. The monitoring aims to detect early arrivals of alien invasive species, assess biofouling impacts on marine habitats, and develop management plans to mitigate potential ecological and economic risks associated with biofouling and invasive species introduction.

Scope

The scope of work includes:

• Conducting comprehensive biofouling monitoring at designated ports, including sampling of water, sediment, hard and soft substrata, and biota.
• Identification and quantification of marine species, including alien, invasive, and indigenous species, using morphological and eDNA analysis.
• Sampling at multiple depths and locations within each port, including impact and control sites.
• Analysis of water quality parameters, sediment quality, and bioaccumulation of contaminants in biota.
• Preparation of detailed reports with data analysis, graphical representations, and recommendations.
• Development and implementation of a monitoring and management plan, including thresholds and response actions.

Technical Requirements

The technical requirements include:

• Adherence to internationally recognized protocols such as CRIMP for sampling and analysis.
• Use of accredited laboratories for sample analysis, including species identification and contaminant testing.
• Collection of samples from specified port locations, depths, and habitats, with proper preservation and documentation.
• Application of molecular techniques such as eDNA metabarcoding for species detection.
• Statistical analysis of species data to identify trends and potential impacts.
• Provision of geo-spatial data compatible with ArcGIS and raw taxonomical data in Excel format.
• Compliance with safety, security, and port entry requirements, including SHE inductions and documentation.

Skills Requirements

The successful bidder must demonstrate:

• Proven experience in marine biofouling monitoring, invasive species detection, and ecological assessment.
• Qualified personnel with SACNASP registration in fields such as Aquatic Science, Biological Science, Environmental Science, Ecological Science, or Zoological Science for project managers and lead scientists.
• Qualified marine technicians with relevant certifications and experience in sampling, laboratory analysis, and data interpretation.
• Capability to perform molecular analyses (eDNA), statistical data analysis, and GIS data management.
• Ability to prepare comprehensive technical reports, including graphical and spatial data presentation.
• Compliance with health, safety, and security protocols as per Occupational Health and Safety Act and port regulations.