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Alarming danger: Red American swamp crabs threaten Leipzig!
The red American swamp crayfish, which transmits dangerous crayfish plague and threatens native species, was detected in Leipzig.
Alarming danger: Red American swamp crabs threaten Leipzig!
Leipzig is faced with a new, unwanted resident in its waters: the red swamp crayfish. This invasive crayfish, native to North America, was first detected in the city by researchers at the Leipzig Natural History Museum and poses an alarming threat to the local fauna. The discovery of the crayfish is considered worrying as it transmits crayfish plague, which is fatal to native crayfish species and also endangers many native species such as amphibians and molluscs. as Radio Leipzig reports.
The origin of the animals in Leipzig remains unclear, but these crabs have been on the rise in Germany for several years and are already a nuisance in Berlin. The Leipzig nature conservation authority has already secured around 25 animals of different ages since 2024. New evidence in May indicates that the species is beginning to spread, which further increases the attention of nature conservation authorities.
Habitats and characteristics
The red swamp crayfish lives in aquatic (freshwater) habitats and can grow up to 15 centimeters long. Its body is usually colored black and red, with juveniles having a greenish tinge. Characteristics such as two eye ridges, dorsal furrows that touch each other, as well as small spines in the neck furrow area and claws covered with red warts make it easy to recognize. Due to its striking black and red markings, it is hardly possible to be confused with other types of cancer, adds information from the [Landschaftsagentur Brandenburg](https://lfu.brandenburg.de/lfu/de/fragen/natur/artenschutz/invasive-arten/steckbriefe/roter- Amerikaer-sumpfkrebs/).
Crayfish plague, which can be transmitted by the red swamp crayfish, is subject to management and various control and control measures are in place. This includes live catching with crab plates or traps, collecting the animals and installing eco-barriers in canals.
Call for help
The Natural History Museum in Leipzig is calling on the public to help. Sightings or discoveries of crayfish in the Leipzig or Saxony area should be reported, ideally with a photo for identification. This is intended to better document the spread of the red swamp crayfish and help develop appropriate protective measures.
The current situation requires quick action to protect local wildlife. With every tip from citizens, nature conservation authorities can develop effective strategies to preserve the ecosystem in Leipzig.