Unexpected visitors turn up at Lastovo Archipelago Nature Park for first time

(Photo credit: Bruna Đuković)

This week, a local fisherman’s tip-off led to the discovery of an invasive visitor in Croatia’s Lastovo Archipelago Nature Park— the blue crab (Latin: Callinectes sapidus). 

The presence of these blue crabs in the Adriatic Sea, typically inhabitants of the Atlantic Ocean, has raised concerns among fishermen, shellfish harvesters, and ecologists.

The detection of four blue crabs in a floating net has raised an alarm about the potential presence of this invasive species within the Lastovo Archipelago Nature Park. Of the three surviving specimens, two are females and one is a male. 

(Photo credit: Bruna Đuković)

Until now, recorded instances did not include blue crabs as part of the Lastovo Archipelago ecosystem, indicating the possibility that these crabs, entangled in a net not owned by local fishermen, may have drifted from other areas.

Blue crabs are commonly found at the mouth of the Neretva River in Croatia, favouring brackish water and muddy bottoms. They have a tendency to reproduce rapidly and consume local shellfish, particularly mussels, posing a threat to the natural balance of the ecosystem.

It’s important to note that this was an isolated incident in the Lastovo Archipelago Nature Park, and there have been no previous reports of blue crabs in this protected area. The proactive approach of reporting any potential sightings underscores the commitment to preserving the ecological integrity of this unique natural habitat.

(Photo credit: Bruna Đuković)

Countries like Italy have long been grappling with the issue of blue crabs. Their strategy involves capturing and eradicating these crabs, but some experts suggest that consuming them could contribute to solving the problem. 

(Photo credit: Bruna Đuković)

In the United States, blue crabs are sold at a price of 80 euros per kilogram, prompting Italy to export nearly 16 tons of blue crabs to the U.S. last month.

In the battle against these invaders, innovative approaches are gaining attention. Renowned chef David Skoko has developed a recipe for gnocchi that uses blue crabs as an ingredient, featured in a cookbook created by the European Commission. This idea opens up the possibility of a creative approach to addressing invasive species through consumption.