Stable Isotope Analysis of invasive crayfish populations

BUG is undertaking trophic web analysis within two lakes using stable isotopes, with a view to understanding predator-prey interactions and potential biological control of the invasive signal crayfish.

The invasive signal crayfish, Pacifastacus leniusculus.

The lakes in question have large populations of signal crayfish, along with the non-native common carp, both of which can be detrimental to lake ecosystems.

BUG will be undertaking Stable Isotope Analysis on a range of species in each lake, including signal crayfish, fish (common carp, perch, pike, brown trout), benthic invertebrates, zooplankton, benthic detritus and aquatic plants to determine food web dynamics. This will help to inform management decisions, particularly with regard to stocking predatory fish (perch and/or pike) as a means of biological control of signal crayfish and carp.

A large perch - potential for biological control of signal crayfish via predation?

Large carp can be detrimental to lake ecosystems. Could perch or pike be used as biological control agents through predation of young carp?