Rio Grande Valley, Texas (KTRK) – The invasive Australian Redclaw lobster is found in the Rio Grande Valley and Texas Parks and Wildlife officials are concerned about the possibility of breeding.
Researchers from the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley have discovered the first known introduction of a large lobster, both male and female.
According to wildlife experts, these animals can dramatically alter habitats and vegetation, competitively excluding native crayfish, and affecting local fish communities via direct predation.
The reason officials are concerned about their breeding is that experts say they can reproduce quickly, with females raising up to five times a year at a rate of 1,000 eggs per clutch.
The Australian Redclaw lobster is recognized by its large size, large left claws that have a red patch on the outer edge, and the presence of four distinct ridges on the top of the head. They can usually be found in slow-moving streams and stagnant water bodies.
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