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Is This The Start Of Another Alien Invasion? - 24th August 2011 - Grand Union Canal, Paddington Arm - Alperton Visitor Moorings.

A species of freshwater crayfish Procambarus clarkii was landed by an angler, this creature is a species native to the Southeastern United States, also known as the red swamp crawfish or crayfish, Louisiana crawfish, Louisiana crayfish or mudbug.

A dark red crayfish with bright red spines on the forelegs and claws - P. clarkii is normally found along the Gulf Coast from northern Mexico to the Florida panhandle, as well as inland, to southern Illinois and Ohio in warm fresh water, such as slowly-flowing rivers, canals, etc., being able to tolerate dry spells of up to four months.

Capable of reaching an excess of 50 grams, and up to 12 centimeters long. It is also able to tolerate slightly saline water, which is unusual for a crayfish. The average lifetime of Procambarus clarkii is 5 to 6 years.

The Environment Agency specialist in crayfish wanted the specimen (frozen) to compare with samples already taken from a site in London where there already appears to be a breeding colony!

Procambarus clarkii normally reproduces sexually, but recent research suggests it may also reproduce by parthenogenesis - a form of asexual reproduction found in females, where growth and development of embryos occurs without fertilization by a male.

Louisiana crawfish Recipe

Boil in a pot with heavy seasoning (salt, cayenne pepper, lemon, garlic, bay leaves, etc.) and other items such as potatoes, corn on the cob, onions, garlic, and sausage.

Don't ignore it, report it! - Report a UK Environmental Incident - 0800 80 70 60 (Calls may be charged from mobiles).