Thriving industry and ecological impacts from exotic red swamp crayfish (Procambarus clarkii) in China

The red swamp crayfish ( Procambarus clarkii ), an alien species native to the southern United States and northern Mexico, was introduced into China from Japan in 1929. Its prolific reproduction, rapid growth, omnivorous diet, and broad adaptability have enabled it to colonize and thrive across China. The species' considerable economic value has cemented its status as an essential component of China's aquaculture industry. However, as an invasive species, the crayfish has also had detrimental effects on China's freshwater ecosystems. Escapes from aquaculture operations and deliberate releases have inflicted significant harm on rice paddies, levees, local food webs. Prior research has often focused one-sidedly on either the invasive risks or the economic benefits of the red swamp crayfish, resulting in a lack of comprehensive evaluation of its overall impact in China. This review presents in-depth data on the proliferation of the crayfish in China, highlighting its substantial economic contributions. By examining various facets of its success as an invasive species, the review provides a holistic perspective on the crayfish, both within China and globally, and elucidates its positive and negative impacts. Specifically, P. clarkii as a driver of economic growth and a source of ecological threat, and the urgent need to balance economic utilization with effective ecological management.