The white-clawed crayfish (Austropotamobius pallipes) is the UK’s only native freshwater crayfish species and a vital part of aquatic ecosystems. Found in clean rivers, streams, and lakes, it plays an important role in maintaining biodiversity. However, this species is critically endangered due to habitat loss, pollution, and the introduction of invasive crayfish species like the signal crayfish (Pacifastacus leniusculus), which outcompetes them and spreads crayfish plague (Aphanomyces astaci), a disease lethal to white-clawed crayfish.
