Most Unwanted: Red King Crabs
Paralithodes camtschaticus
Habitat: Marine
Threat: Impacts on marine seafloor communites
Status: Potential
The red king crab is among the world’s largest arthropods. During the period 1961-1969 Russian Scientists intentionally released both juveniles and adults in the Kolafjord in the east Barents Sea to create a new and valuable fishing resource in the region. Since then, the crab has spread both east and westwards from the initial site of introduction.
Description
It has a fused head and thorax, a fan shaped tail, 5 sets of appendages, the first two are pincers, the right is usually larger than the left, and three pairs of walking legs. The body is generally red/brownish. For a more detailed description please see the Nobanis Fact Sheet on this species.
Impact
This species is capable of consuming large amounts of prey items. Adults are opportunistic, omnivorous feeders eating what is most readily available. Adult crabs are active and consequently, where there are low densities of available food, they may swiftly migrate, by walking rapidly on the long legs, to a different and less exploited region where food is more abundant. This enable the adult crabs to exploit considerable areas of sea bottom.
Where is it from?
Northern Pacific and Bering Sea.
Where is it now?
Russian and Norwegian southern Barents Sea.
How can it get here?
The species was originally intentionally introduced to Russia but the most likely way it will arrive in Ireland is by natural dispersal. It is unclear at present if this species will be able to survive in Irish waters. The island of Ireland lies on a biogeographical boundary and waters may be too warm.
What you can do
Report all sightings.
