INVASIVE EUROPEAN SHORE CRABS FOUND IN ALASKA

Invasive European shore crabs found in Alaska. The Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G), with the Metlakatla Indian Community (MIC) and National Marine Fisheries Service (NOAA Fisheries) says that invasive European green crabs (Carcinus maenas) have been verified within Alaska for the first time, in the Annette Islands Reserve in southern Southeast, Alaska.

As of August 9, 2022, MIC Department of Fish and Wildlife has trapped 32 live European green crabs from Tamgas Harbour. Surveys in adjacent Smuggler’s Cove have resulted in detection of only dead invasive crabs. European green crabs are classified as a banned invasive species in state regulations.

European green crabs are considered one of the top 100 worst invasive species globally. As highly competitive, voracious predators, these crabs have decimated shellfish populations, displaced native crabs, and reduced eelgrass and saltmarsh habitats in areas where they have become established outside their native range. Unless controlled, they can significantly reduce biodiversity and abundance of inter- and subtidal species and destroy nearshore ecosystems.

For nearly two decades, ADF&G has supported early detection monitoring for European green crabs by providing technical assistance and traps. MIC has conducted an early detection program around Annette Islands Reserve for the past three years. Since discovery of European green crabs on July 19, 2022, MIC has implemented eradication protocols by increasing trapping effort, partnering to collect samples and data for research, and expanding monitoring and outreach. NOAA Fisheries has provided technical and financial assistance for the MIC programme. This fall, ADF&G will survey for presence of European green crabs in vulnerable estuaries and embayments in southern Southeast, Alaska.

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