First steps of the bioinvasion of Procambarus clarkii (Girard, 1852) (Decapoda: Cambaridae) in the Amazon Biome: an eminent risk for the natural habitat

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study reports the first occurrence of Procambarus clarkii (Girard, 1852) in the Amazon biome, highlighting potential environmental risks. The introduction of animals beyond their original biogeographical boundaries, known as bio-invasion, poses significant threats to native biodiversity. These impacts arise through competition for natural resources and habitat, as well as the introduction of pathogenic organisms. The red swamp crayfish, P. clarkii, is a species native to North America that has been reported as invasive in Central and South America, Europe, Africa, and Asia. Its spread is likely due to biopiracy and the aquarium trade. In Brazil, P. clarkii has been documented as a non-native species in various states and biomes, particularly in the southern and southeastern regions. Two female specimens of P. clarkii were manually collected from a vegetated area near Cruzeiro Beach in the metropolitan region of Belém, Pará, Brazil. This area is notable for its tourism and its industrial and artisanal fishing activities. This finding marks the first documentation of P. clarkii in the Amazon biome and reinforce the need for further research to assess its potential ecological impacts on native aquatic species, in addition to possible underreporting of the occurrence of the species. Management recommendations are suggested to avoid introductions of P. clarkii in the region.