Abstract

Crayfish are not native to Scotland, however at least two populations of the white- clawed crayfish Austropotamobius pallipes have been recorded there. The origin of these populations is unknown. North American signal crayfish Pacifasticus leniusculus were introduced to England from Sweden in the 1970’s and several feral populations have now become established within Scotland. Despite the virtual absence of native crayfish species within Scotland, North American signal crayfish may significantly impact aquatic habitats and species of conservation concern. Although legislative controls are in place to control the introduction of alien crayfish species to Scottish waters, some ambiguity exists as to their efficacy. This paper provides a background to the North American signal crayfish ‘problem’ in Scotland and clarifies the measures available to control their introduction and spread.

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