Distribution of the alien species callinectes sapidus (Rathbun, 1896) in sardinian waters (western mediterranean)

Abstract

The distribution of the Atlantic blue crab Callinectes sapidus is reported from marine, transitional and freshwater environments along the coasts of Sardinia (Italy, western Mediterranean Sea). Professional and recreational fishermen accidentally collected male and female specimens using fishtraps, gillnets or fyke nets depending on the site. This note represents a new contribution to the knowledge on the ongoing colonization of Mediterranean coastal ecosystems by this invasive species.