Non-native Atlantic Blue Crab now in Sussex

Sarah Ward

Marine Conservation Officer

Earlier this year two reports of the Atlantic Blue Crab, Callinectes sapidus, were made on the Sussex coast. This species is non-native to the UK, originating in the western Atlantic Ocean.

The striking Blue Crab is not yet considered invasive in the UK, but it is considered as such in the Mediterranean where it has become well established. Not all non-native species will become invasive, but if conditions are suitable then they can establish and become a threat to native species and/or ecosystems. They are known to be voracious predators of shellfish, and could easily devastate a native Mussel or Oyster bed should conditions allow for their establishment in this area in the future.

There are a handful of records of the species over the last few decades around the UK, however two recent sightings in Sussex have raised concerns amongst bodies dealing with biosecurity. A dead specimen was found washed up in Brighton Marina in July, and then an alive one was caught near Brighton Pier by a fishing vessel.

If you’re a fisher, angler, diver or rock pooler, please keep an eye out for this species! 

Reports of sightings should be made via iRecord, ideally with photos so as to be able to verify the record. If you are able to retain the specimen please take it to the local Marine Management Organisation Office – in Sussex these are in Shoreham-by-Sea and Hastings. If you catch a Atlantic Blue Crab, do not re-release these crabs back into the environment as this is an offence under the Wildlife and Countryside Act.

[email protected]
0208 026 9057

[email protected]
0208 026 9180