Review of methods for the management of non-indigenous crayfish, with particular reference to Great Britain

Abstract

Globally, some of the most widely distributed, damaging freshwater non-indigenous species are crayfish. With an increasing demand to meet regulatory targets, there is a need to implement more stringent controls to prevent further environmental stress and irreparable shifts in species diversity attributed to non-indigenous crayfish. In establishing a management strategy for non-indigenous crayfish in Great Britain (GB), consideration needs to be given to: (1) the prevention of further introductions of species, including novel species and those already established; (2) methods for containing and preventing the further spread of established populations, and (3) methods for eradication/control. This review aims to provide a critique of existing and potential management methods (mechanical, physical, biological, biocidal, autocidal, legislative) and how they can be potentially used in a cohesive, intergrated and comprehensive strategy with particular reference to GB and the management of the signal crayfish Pacifastacus leniusculus.

KEY WORDS:

• crayfish
• Pacifastacus leniusculus
• control
• management
• eradication

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The authors would like to acknowledge Defra for funding the work (contract codes 5471/C5775) and making it possible. We would also like to thank David Holdich for his constructive comments, editorial help and patience.