Invasive green crabs have spread to southeast Alaska, US

A new invasion of European green crabs has been detected in Bostwick Bay on Gravina Island, near Ketchikan, Alaska. These crabs, which were previously found only on Annette Island, pose a significant threat to salmon habitats and could impact other marine life such as other crabs, oysters, clams, and scallops. The presence of green crabs is of concern to Alaska communities, especially in the context of the ongoing infestation in the US states of Washington and Oregon, which led to a national emergency declaration in Washington in 2022. Communities in Alaska are taking steps to prevent the spread of the crabs and are urging the public to report any sightings to the Alaska Department of Fish and Game.