Invasive Species Threaten Aquatic Life in Hungary’s Lakes
Researchers warn of the spread of the red swamp crayfish and its potential ecological impact.
Researchers have issued a warning regarding the alarming proliferation of invasive species in Hungary, particularly the red swamp crayfish (Procambarus clarkii).
This species poses significant risks to both local wildlife and the integrity of water infrastructure in regions surrounding Lake Balaton and Lake Velence.
The red swamp crayfish has been identified in multiple habitats across Hungary, particularly in thermal and urban areas.
Evidence suggests that irresponsible outdoor keeping of pets has contributed to the species’ spread into new environments.
Recent observations have noted the crayfish in various previously isolated water bodies, indicating its adaptability and resilience in non-native ecosystems.
A survey conducted by researchers from the Hungarian Ichthyological Society between October 2 and October 21, 2024, found populations of the red swamp crayfish in Balatonfűzfő, Balatonfüred, and Siófok, as well as sightings near Lake Velence in Gárdony.
The species is noted for its rapid expansion and ability to thrive in urbanized areas, making its further spread likely.
The ecological implications of the continued spread of the red swamp crayfish are concerning.
It poses threats to the native crayfish populations in both Lake Balaton and Lake Velence.
The invasion might significantly impact local biodiversity and ecological health by spreading crayfish plague (Aphanomyces astaci), which threatens resident populations, including the native river crayfish (Astacus astacus) and the spiny-cheeked crayfish (Pontastacus leptodactylus) in Balaton, and the local crayfish stock at Lake Velence, specifically the Császár-víz river crayfish.
Recent studies have confirmed that populations of the red swamp crayfish in Budapest and the surrounding region are actively propagating the crayfish plague.
Additionally, these crayfish carry other pathogens that threaten not only the native crustaceans but also fish and amphibian populations.
Researchers have detected potentially harmful pathogens associated with this invasive species in both fish and amphibians.
Furthermore, the red swamp crayfish has demonstrated considerable burrowing abilities, which can undermine flood protection embankments and the integrity of ornamental ponds, as well as compromising underground and surface drainage systems, potentially leading to substantial economic damage.
This species poses significant risks to both local wildlife and the integrity of water infrastructure in regions surrounding Lake Balaton and Lake Velence.
The red swamp crayfish has been identified in multiple habitats across Hungary, particularly in thermal and urban areas.
Evidence suggests that irresponsible outdoor keeping of pets has contributed to the species’ spread into new environments.
Recent observations have noted the crayfish in various previously isolated water bodies, indicating its adaptability and resilience in non-native ecosystems.
A survey conducted by researchers from the Hungarian Ichthyological Society between October 2 and October 21, 2024, found populations of the red swamp crayfish in Balatonfűzfő, Balatonfüred, and Siófok, as well as sightings near Lake Velence in Gárdony.
The species is noted for its rapid expansion and ability to thrive in urbanized areas, making its further spread likely.
The ecological implications of the continued spread of the red swamp crayfish are concerning.
It poses threats to the native crayfish populations in both Lake Balaton and Lake Velence.
The invasion might significantly impact local biodiversity and ecological health by spreading crayfish plague (Aphanomyces astaci), which threatens resident populations, including the native river crayfish (Astacus astacus) and the spiny-cheeked crayfish (Pontastacus leptodactylus) in Balaton, and the local crayfish stock at Lake Velence, specifically the Császár-víz river crayfish.
Recent studies have confirmed that populations of the red swamp crayfish in Budapest and the surrounding region are actively propagating the crayfish plague.
Additionally, these crayfish carry other pathogens that threaten not only the native crustaceans but also fish and amphibian populations.
Researchers have detected potentially harmful pathogens associated with this invasive species in both fish and amphibians.
Furthermore, the red swamp crayfish has demonstrated considerable burrowing abilities, which can undermine flood protection embankments and the integrity of ornamental ponds, as well as compromising underground and surface drainage systems, potentially leading to substantial economic damage.
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