Abstract

Austropotamobius pallipes is protected by the Wildlife and Countryside Act in Britain, and Britain has European Community and other international commitments to conserve this crayfish species. However, this is not enough to prevent the decline in populations or remove the threats to its existence. Crayfish plague is the main threat, and control of the spread of non-native species, particularly Pacifastacus leniusculus, the main vector of the disease in Britain, is considered to be the most effective way of turning the tide of decline. An "Action Plan" published by the Joint Nature Conservancy Committee and a consultation letter published by the Ministry of Agriculture Fisheries and Food regarding effective enactment of the Import of live Fish Act 1980 against non-native crayfish species represent very positive moves for conservation. Both documents cite a new concept for Britain of "no-go areas" in which crayfish farming will be prohibited by law. If enacted and implemented, "no-go areas" are considered to be an effective management tool for conservation of A. pallipes.

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