Freshwater Biodiversity Toolbox
Invasive Species Removal – Mechanical Methods to Remove Invasive Crayfish
Invasive species adversely impact their introduced environments by causing environmental, ecological, and economic damages. Due to the reproductive biology and competitive strength of many invasive species, they can be extremely difficult or impossible to eradicate once established. Early management interventions such as removal and eradication programs can help control or eliminate populations of invasive aquatic organisms. Physical or mechanical removal of crayfish can be accomplished through capture by methods such as electrofishing, collection via nets or trapping. Though successful in some circumstances, physical removal efforts can be intensive, expensive and take numerous years. Application, eradication success, and management implications are discussed in these syntheses.
Rating:
All syntheses were scored poorly in CEESAT demonstrating limitations in the rigour and the transparency in which the synthesis was conducted (i.e., no a-priori protocol, critical appraisal, or appropriate search strategy provided).
RASCAT scoring was mixed for this intervention; Holdich et al. (1999) was highly relevant to a Canadian freshwater context in terms of the reviewed habitats, climates, and countries. It is also an older synthesis, and alongside Gherardi et al. (2011), did not provide any consideration of implications, practical advice, or recommendations for decision-makers.
Photo credit: USFWS/Lisa Hupp
