Study finds narrow-clawed crayfish in U.K. pose ecological risk similar to signal species
A new study published in Biological Invasions reveals that the narrow-clawed crayfish, an understudied invasive species across the U.K., causes ecological damage comparable to the well-known signal crayfish.
Aggressive feeding habits confirmed
Researchers at the University of Leeds found these creatures act as similar predators to signal crayfish under all temperature conditions. They consume aquatic plants, algae, invertebrates, and even fish eggs while living in still waters like lakes and reservoirs. This behavior harms food webs by removing a wide variety of food sources from the ecosystem.
Potential for disease spread
The narrow-clawed crayfish also carries the crayfish plague, which is known to be a major threat to freshwater biodiversity. Lead author James Hodson noted that invasive species are a primary driver of biodiversity loss within freshwaters in the U.K.
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