Volunteers, scientists, and tribal members joined forces Friday at Padilla Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve for a “Molt Blitz” to detect the presence of European green crabs, an invasive species threatening Washington’s second-largest eelgrass meadow. No crab molts were found that day — a hopeful sign — but experts remain on alert.
The eelgrass beds of Padilla Bay provide habitat for juvenile Dungeness crab, herring, salmon, and culturally important species for the Samish Indian Nation. These meadows also reduce shoreline erosion, store carbon, and may even filter pathogens from seafood.
The green crabs, however, uproot eelgrass while foraging and damage the plants directly. In 2024 alone, over 1 million were trapped on Washington’s outer coast. Though Puget Sound is more protected, sightings are rising — from a few dozen in 2023 to over 200 in 2024.
Efforts like the Molt Search program aim to empower residents to track these invaders. “That’s what we like to see,” said invasive species expert Angelica Lucchetto, noting only native crab shells were found.
Source(s)
Discover more from News Facts Network
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
