An American blue crab has taken over Italian lagoons, causing significant damage to the local fishing industry. The crustacean, native to the US eastern seaboard and the Gulf of Mexico, has been found in large numbers in the Po Delta, a region in northeastern Italy.
Impact on Local Fisheries
The blue crab population has grown rapidly, with catches increasing by 900% between 2022 and 2024. This has led to a decline in the clam harvest, with some areas experiencing a 93% decrease in annual production. Many fishers have been forced to quit, with over 600 members of the local consortium giving up their licenses.
Scientists believe that climate change and extreme weather events have contributed to the blue crab’s rapid growth. The crabs have found a suitable environment in the Po Delta, with its nutrient-rich waters and mild winters. Efforts to control the population have been unsuccessful, with the Italian government investing millions of euros to catch and dispose of the crabs.
New Economic Opportunities
A Sri Lankan company, Taprobane Seafoods, has partnered with local fishers to create a new supply chain for exporting the blue crabs. This has provided some economic opportunities for the affected communities, with some locals employed at the processing facility.
Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
