First database of invasive crayfish in north-western Italian lakes

This data paper presents 367 georeferenced occurrence records of invasive crayfish collected from 17 lakes in north-western Italy between 2017 and 2025. The database comprises four datasets in the standardised Darwin Core Archive format (DwC-A) and is openly accessible through the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF). We document the datasets, associated metadata, and the projects supporting data acquisition, rather than presenting research findings. All records derive from sampling conducted in submontane lakes in two Italian regions (Piedmont and Lombardy). The lakes represent different origins (fluvial, glacial and tectonic) and typologies, ranging from large, deep systems to small, shallow waterbodies. Two study lakes (Maggiore and Orta) are part of the national Long-Term Ecological Research network (LTER Italy), while the remaining lakes are designated as Special Areas of Conservation, Special Protection Areas or belong to the European Union’s Natura 2000 network under the Birds Directive. By making these data publicly available, this work supports global efforts to mobilise FAIR (Findable, Accessible, Interoperable and Reusable) biodiversity data on invasive species, facilitating regional-scale monitoring and management. Newly georeferenced records of three invasive crayfish species — Faxonius limosus , Pacifastacus leniusculus and Procambarus clarkii — from 17 lakes in Piedmont and Lombardy (north-western Italy) have been published in GBIF. The data reveal the spatial distribution and relative abundance of these species, supporting ecological research, regional monitoring and the management of freshwater invasions.