Crayfish plague confirmed in the River Allen, Dorset

Our native white clawed crayfish are under attack from crayfish plague, which is carried by non-native signal crayfish. The plague can be carried between rivers on damp clothing and equipment, which is why anglers are urged to check, clean and dry their equipment when moving between rivers. Click here for more information on biosecurity for anglers.

Until recently the River Allen’s native White-clawed crayfish population, one of the few remaining in Dorset has managed to remain free from disease but dead and distressed crayfish were recently spotted in the river in July.

For more on the crayfish plague outbreak on the River Allen, click here

Articles about signal crayfish and their impact are available here under the Invasive Non Natives’ section. 

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