Green Crab numbers growing in the waters around PEI
Submitted by Chris on Thu, 07/22/2010 - 09:54.
In a troubling discovery, DFO is encountering greater numbers of green crab in eastern waters of PEI.
http://www.cbc.ca/canada/prince-edward-island/story/2010/07/22/pei-green...
The green crab is what is called an invasive species, as it is not from around here. It's original home is Europe, and was brought to island waters in the 1990's in a ship's bilge, it is believed.
This crab is a voracious predator and where it is found, numbers of clams, mussels, and other marine species are greatly reduced. The green crab can out compete our native rock crab.
http://www.accessmylibrary.com/article-1G1-135967962/predation-potential...
I have not heard anything recently about this, but someome has tried to put green crab on the dinner plate:
http://www.accessmylibrary.com/coms2/summary_0286-22109403_ITM
Another very interesting study indicates that there may be a link between green crab and the clubbed tunicate. Apparently, the green crab has eliminated predators of the tunicate, which has allowed them to flourish. The web of interconnectedness of species shows itself.
