"Devastating Impact: Invasive Blue Crabs Imperil Italy's Economy"

Invasive blue crabs from North and South America are threatening the economy of fishing communities in northern Italy, as they prey on local shellfish and disrupt the country's clam production. The crabs have already caused significant economic damage and have devoured up to 90% of young clams in the Po delta. Efforts to control their population have been largely ineffective, prompting calls for government support. While Rome has allocated funds to control the crabs, there is also a parallel strategy to encourage Italians to consume them. However, not everyone agrees with this approach, arguing for a more serious program to control the invasive species. The blue crabs likely arrived in Italy through shipping and international trade.