Alarming new addition: American swamp cancer threatens Leipzig's water!

Alarming new addition: American swamp cancer threatens Leipzig's water!

in Leipzig, a new comrade causes excitement on the waters: American swamp cancer, also known as red American swamp cancer, was first demonstrated in the city. Researchers from the Leipzig Natural History Museum have come across the invasive animal species, which has been spreading in Germany, especially in Berlin for several years. Together with camber cancer and marble cancer, swamp cancer is an increasing threat to domestic species, experts warn. According to lr online this find could have extensive ecological consequences.

The researchers report that the animals have a high reproductive rate and adaptability. This makes them serious competitors for local crabs affected by the cancer plague, which can be fatal to them. In addition to the types of cancer, many amphibians and molluscs are also at risk from swamp cancer. It remains unclear how swamp cancer came to Saxony, but 25 copies of different ages could be secured in Leipzig in 2024. Another proof in May 2025 in another water indicates that the species is already spreading, explains the Leipziger Zeitung .

alarm level red for domestic ecosystems

Invasive species worldwide are a serious threat to the biological diversity. The wwf refers to the alarming figures: Over 3,500 areas of the species have established themselves as invasive. The list of endangered animal and plant species in Germany is long and concern for the domestic fauna is growing. In view of the climate crisis, an increased spread of non -domestic species is assumed.

The Natural History Museum Leipzig has asked the citizens to report sightings of crayfish in the Leipzig or Saxony area. Ideally, these reports should be made with photos for species determination. In this way, one hopes to document the spread better and to be able to develop suitable protective measures. A good knack in the message may help protect the ecosystem and to minimize the effects of this invasive way.

The development of the Situation is now crucial to carefully observe the reproduction and spread of the American swamp crab. It remains to be hoped that local species have the chance to assert themselves against this new competitor.