The Italian shellfish industry is threatened by the invasion of the blue crab

A particularly aggressive species of crab from the western Atlantic threatens Italy's role as one of the world's leading shellfish producers - and potentially one of its signature pasta dishes. Originally from the coasts of North and South America, the "blue crab" has spread to several lagoon-like places in Italy and feeds on local shellfish, fish and other aquatic life. Shellfish aquafarms in the delta of northern Italy's Po River valley are particularly hard hit, with a local marine biologist telling Reuters that the crabs have eaten up to 90 percent of young clams in some places, decimating future production. It is certain that next year there will be a very big crisis and shortage on the market" - said Emanuele Rossetti, an employee of the Polesine Fishermen's Association, which works in the Po delta area. According to 2021 data from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, Italy is the largest shellfish producer in Europe and the third largest in the world ...