Asian Shore crab reaches mainland UK

The Asian Shore crab (Hemigrapsus sanguineus) has been recorded for the first time in the UK with 2 records in May. The records come from 2 different sites, one from Kent and one from south Wales. This non-native species has raised concern as it has the potential to affect our native species common shore crab (Carcinus maenas) and edible crab (Cancer pagurus) through distribution overlap and competition. The NBN are monitoring this invasive species to track its spread and keep an eye on any effects it may have on our native species.

Source: NBN news May 2014