Yabbies Invade African Rivers, Threatening Ecosystems
Australian redclaw crayfish, known as yabbies, have become an invasive species in the Zambesi River, threatening local ecosystems. The article discusses how these resilient creatures adapt to harsh environments and the challenges of managing invasive species.
Why it matters
Invasive species can cause irreversible damage to biodiversity and local food chains, necessitating global environmental management strategies.
Every year, the upper Zambesi River breaks its banks and spreads across the wide Barotse floodplains in Zambia.
Head of Research, South Australian Museum
These seasonal wetlands are famed for their exceptional richness of species, from birds to unique cichlid fish.
But there are signs of profound upheaval. Native fish and invertebrate populations have fallen, river plants are being devoured and river banks hollowed out from within.
Every Australian knows common myna birds are bad, rabbits are worse and feral cats kill native animals unchecked.
But how do we decide what makes an introduced species "good" or "bad" - and will we ever concede that some species are here to stay?
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