Octopuses deployed to combat invasive blue crabs in Adriatic Sea

Italian scientists are deploying a novel strategy to combat the invasive blue crab in the Adriatic Sea: releasing thousands of octopuses. The blue crab, native to the Atlantic coast of North America, has become a significant threat to marine ecosystems and the fishing industry.

Estimates suggest the invasive crustaceans have inflicted approximately 200 million euros in damages to Italy's fishing sector. Their population surged in 2023, decimating shellfish like mussels. Scientists attribute this proliferation partly to climate change, which has warmed the Adriatic, allowing the crabs to thrive year-round.

"Usually, when the water drops below 10°C, this crab doesn't live well, but now it finds an ideal temperature 12 months a year," explained Enrica Franchi, a marine biologist at the University of Siena.

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Usually, when the water drops below 10°C, this crab doesn't live well, but now it finds an ideal temperature 12 months a year.

The 'Octo-Blu' project, led by researchers from the University of Bologna, aims to introduce a formidable natural predator. Since June, around 80,000 octopuses have been released, with plans to double that number by the end of August. "We chose the octopus because in nature it is a formidable predator of crabs," said researcher Antonio Casalini.

However, the project faces challenges. Octopuses may not be inclined to hunt in the sandy, warm waters where blue crabs cause the most damage. Some experts suggest alternative predators like sea bass or eels might be more effective.

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We chose the octopus because in nature it is a formidable predator of crabs.