14 DAY TRIAL // Seeing how the biodiversity map is a delicate issue, scientists from Queen Mary, University of London decided to investigate what would happen if someone decided to introduce crayfish in natural habitats where they do not belong.
Apparently, their studies lead them to the conclusion that these crustaceans are some of the planet's most invasive species, as they can adapt to whatever conditions they find in their surrounding environment.
One pretty amazing feature of these animals is that, if the aquatic ecosystems fail to provide them with sufficient food, they move on and search for other food sources on land.
Dr. Jonathan Grey explains how, “These crayfish are incredible survivors; our research shows they are able to feed off terrestrial plants directly, as well as aquatic plants – the first study to demonstrate this.”
As one can imagine, these abilities allow crayfish to negatively impact on native species.
Although we do admire these crustaceans, we also wish to draw attention to the fact that natural balance is not something one should mess with, as serious consequences might occur.