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Publication
Subtle ecological effects of the invasive signal crayfish (Pacifastacus leniusculus) on Iberian fish communities
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Advisor(s)
Abstract(s)
The introduction of non-native species can disrupt the structure of communities and affect the functioning of freshwater ecosystems, disturbing various taxonomic groups, including fish. This study aimed to assess the ecological effects of the recent introduction of the signal crayfish <jats:italic>Pacifastacus leniusculus</jats:italic> in the fish communities in the Rabaçal and Tuela River basins (Montesinho Natural Park and adjacent areas; NE of Portugal), an area with very low human disturbance. A total of 34 sites (18 invaded and 16 non-invaded) were sampled in the summer of 2022 and comparisons were made between invaded and non-invaded sites concerning abundance, biomass, richness and diversity of fish communities. In addition, we compared the physiological condition of the sampled species. A total of 2307 fishes belonging to six different species were collected and results indicated almost no negative (except diversity) effects at the community level. However, species-specific analysis revealed a decrease in the abundance of the Iberian chub <jats:italic>Squalius carolitertii</jats:italic> in invaded sites. We also observed a lower physiological condition of the brown trout <jats:italic>Salmo trutta</jats:italic>. Although the ecological effects appear to be subtle, ongoing monitoring of signal crayfish populations and their effects on fish communities is essential, using this study as a baseline for future comparisons. Additionally, urgent management measures—such as controlling and containing signal crayfish populations and raising local awareness—should be considered, given the conservation significance of the study area and the potential negative ecological effects of this non-native species.
Description
Keywords
Biological invasions Ecological impacts Freshwater ecosystems Montesinho Natural Park Protected areas
Pedagogical Context
Citation
Oliveira, Bruno; Nogueira, António B.; Teixeira, Amilcar; Sousa, Ronaldo (2025). Subtle ecological effects of the invasive signal crayfish (Pacifastacus leniusculus) on Iberian fish communities. Biological Invasions. ISSN 1387-3547. 27:5, p. 1-17
Publisher
Springer Nature