Crayfish alien species found at Phetchabun waterfall, Thais discuss potential effects to ecosystem

After a non-native species of crayfish was found at a Northern Thailand waterfall, some are discussing the effects the species can have on the environment. A photo of a Redcraw crayfish, originating from Australia, at a waterfall in Phetchabun, sparked a debate about the potential damage this “freshwater lobster” can cause to the local ecosystem.

Crayfish (also known as crawfish, yabbies, freshwater lobsters, mudbugs or crawdads) are a type of freshwater crustacean native to North America, Europe and Oceania. To date, over 500 species of crayfish have been discovered in a variety of colours.

The Redcraw crayfish can reach up to 600 grams in weight and eats smaller aquatic organisms. If a water source has large numbers of this species, it could cause local species of fish to go extinct. Many are considering the appearance of this crayfish a sign of danger.

Redclaw crayfish are a…