New Invasive Crayfish Species Found in Swedish Waters
A new species of marl crayfish, Pontogammarus robustoides, has been discovered near Kungsängen in Upplands-Bro, Sweden. The small crustacean, which grows to about one to two centimeters in size, is considered a threat to native species in the area.
The marl crayfish is known to be a small predator that consumes the food source of native marl crayfish. It resides close to the shore in lakes and larger watercourses, impacting various small animals in the ecosystem. Carin Nilsson, a group manager and freshwater expert at the consulting company Sweco, expressed concern about the potential effects of this invasive species on the local environment.
The species originates from the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea region. It has previously been found in countries such as Lithuania, Poland, and Germany. According to Nilsson, the most probable means of transportation for this species to Sweden is through water, possibly in ballast water.
The Swedish University of Agriculture has identified eight species of invasive marl crabs that pose a high risk of establishing themselves in Swedish waters. This recent discovery marks the third occurrence of this particular marl crayfish species being found in Sweden within the past year.
In March, the Norwegian Sea and Water Authority confirmed the presence of another invasive marl crayfish species, the greater predatory merle, in the shore zone of Lake Vättern. Shortly after, another species was discovered in Lake Tulingesjön in Botkyrka.
The growing number of invasive marl crayfish species in Swedish waters raises concerns about the potential disruption they may cause to the local ecosystem. Efforts to monitor and prevent the spread of these species will be crucial in protecting the native species and maintaining the ecological balance.
Further research and collaboration between environmental organizations and government agencies are necessary to address the threat posed by these invasive species and develop effective management strategies.