The emerging invasion by European green crabs (Carcinus maenas) threatens marine resources in Washington. Early detection of small populations gives us the best chance to reduce the spread and impact of this globally damaging invasive species.
Washington Sea Grant and Washington State University Extension have teamed up to launch a new volunteer-based early detection program to complement the existing WSG Crab Team monitoring network.
Molt Search aims to support broader participation in early detection along inland Washington’s shorelines by teaching volunteers simple, standardized steps for searching and reporting on the presence (and absence!) of European green crab molts. Molts can serve as an early indicator of the presence of European green crab in a new area.
Additional data on native Dungeness crab molts adds value to search efforts by filling a significant knowledge gap on the range and growth patterns of juvenile Dungeness, whose preferred habitats overlap with the new invader.
Questions? Contact us at [email protected]