Invasive Mitten Crabs Threaten New York's Ecosystems
The Chinese mitten crab, known for its distinctive claws, poses ecological and economic risks as it spreads in state waterways.
Overview
- First spotted in New York in 2007, mitten crabs have recently been found in the Hudson River and Long Island Sound.
- These crabs can disrupt local ecosystems by out-competing native marine life and damaging fishing gear.
- Mitten crabs also pose risks to infrastructure by blocking power plant cooling systems and causing erosion through their burrowing habits.
- Authorities urge the public to report sightings and remove the crabs from the environment to help control their spread.
- The species, originally from East Asia, has previously caused significant issues in Europe and California.