Not another invasive species!?

A sighting of an Australian redclaw crayfish in an apartment complex pond in the Brownsville area confirms that the pesky invasive crayfish has arrived in Texas. This is the first detection of the species in the state and only the second sighting in the U.S. (it was previously seen in California). TPWD aquatic biologist Archis Grubh confirms that this is a very bad thing indeed. “We don’t know when these invasive crayfish were first introduced or how far they have spread, but we do know they can have a negative effect on local species and biodiversity,” Grubh said in a news release. “Spreading the word about this invasive species and reporting sightings to TPWD can help us better understand where it is distributed and potentially take steps to help prevent its spread.” It is illegal to own or sell the Australian redclaw in Texas or to release these crayfish into a public waterway. However, that’s usually how invasive species end up in our lakes and rivers: Someone releases them into the water, with disastrous results for native fish and other aquatic species. Sightings of the redclaw crayfish should be reported to aquaticinvasives@tpwd.texas.gov. Wondering what to do with unwanted aquarium creatures? Find out responsible ways to rehome aquatic pets.