Abstract

The crayfish plague, caused by the fungus Aphanomyces astaci, reached Swedish waters in 1907 and has now reduced the population of domestic crayfish species Astacus astacus to 5% of original size. In order to restore fisheries and refill the vacant ecological niche, the plague-resistant North American crayfish Pacifastacus leniusculus was introduced to Swedish waters in 1960. A large scale repopulation programme began in 1969. In this report results from the programme are presented. Figures on stocking and test fishing are given and population densities seen as catch per unit effort described. Choice of stocking material is discussed and recommendations are given An estimation on yield for future is made. One recommendation is that no intro­ductions are to be made in areas not affected by the crayfish plaque, these areas are to be reserved for the native species A. astacus. It is stated that so far the stocking programme is a success, the crayfish P. leniusculus has filled expectations and no unwanted or unexpected side effects have been observed.

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