Change for the Better
Posted by Margaret Blue on August 9, 2005
Q: Crayfish have been introduced and are spreading quickly in my home town(Edmonton, Alberta). How will this affect our native species
Habitat: pond/lake
State: Alberta
Habitat: pond/lake
A: I'm not sure what species of crayfish has been introduced into Edmonton, but the Rusty Crayfish is a real problem for many areas as the "Draw Your Weapons" unit points out. Take a look at this unit (www.enaturalist.org see if it answers your question.
One of the biggest problems with introducing non-native species into any area is that one can't be sure how it will affect the natural balance. Animals and plants that are a real asset in one area can become a real hazard in a different environment but we often don't know this until it's too late. There have been introductions of animals and plants into many areas of the world that have worked out really well so your crayfish introduction may or may not work out - only time will tell. Thanks for your question.
John Wiessinger ( August 10, 2005)