Zander-crayfish-mussels

[MalcolmX]

i have a little knowledge of some of these invasives , signal crayfish can be controlled by the use of wells catfish which although not native have been in the uk about 40 years ,zander were first put into the fen drains and are now a balanced predator along the lines of perch ,rainbows introduced in ponds etc are triploids and cannot breed .the ea generally offer political not practical solutions and i find fairly them useless in the collective but often very good if you can isolate an individual

[Charles Halliday]

Another interesting thread. I read it because it seems that himalayan balsam seems to be the fastest spreading alien species on our rivers, yet seems to get least press coverage out of all the alien species that are mentioned. Presumably its causing the most ecological disruption?

[aeshna5]

Have just seen this thread! Intersted to see Zebra Mussels which originated form Black/Caspian Sea area. I know they can be a real problem blocking pipes, etc but they are a favourite prey item for Tufted Duck.

Tufted Duck didn't start breeding in UK until mid-19th century + though there are obviously other factors involved, the abundance of these introduced molluscs is thought to be a factor in the success of our commonest diving duck. So not all bad then!