Further evidence of the occurrence of the Atlantic blue crab <i>Callinectes sapidus</i> (Rathbun 1896) (Crustacea: Decapoda: Portunidae) along the central Tyrrhenian coast

Abstract

We report evidence of the occurrence of the alien invasive crab Callinectes sapidus along the coast of Latium (central Tyrrhenian Sea, Italy). Original data refer to five adult females found in July 2022 in the Special Protection Area of “Torre Flavia” (Municipalities of Ladispoli and Cerveteri; IT6030020). Indirect evidence was obtained by web sources and personal communications by tourists and fishermen from the same site (including a juvenile reported on February 2023) and from neighbouring localities: Passoscuro (Municipality of Fiumicino), Santa Marinella, and Tarquinia. The Atlantic blue crab appears sparsely distributed along the coast of Latium, although its presence, even if still occasional, might prelude to a concerning scenario in relation to its high invasiveness. The Atlantic blue crab is known to have a severe impact on the invaded habitats, including the transmission of pathogens and parasites. Therefore, further monitoring aimed at collecting data about the distribution and population structure of this species are urgently required in order to develop strategies for the effective control of this non-native crustacean and the mitigation of its impact.