| Abstract: | Effects of invasive crayfish in Europe Native crayfish in Europe are threatened by the rapid spread of non‐indigenous crayfish species. An especially potent invader is the North‐American signal crayfish (Pacifastacus leniusculus) due to its tolerance to low temperatures and its high reproduction rate. A three year study aims to detect ecological effects of rising signal crayfish densities as well as their behavioral effects on fish. Results show that high crayfish densities lead to severely decreasing numbers in benthic invertebrate communities as well as in fish densities. Signal crayfish also ousted Brown Trout from shelters permanently, which will lead to higher predation risks for the fish. |
