Chinese mitten crab
The Chinese mitten crab (Eriocheir sinensis) is an invasive crustacean in the UK, first recorded in the River Thames in the 1930s. Native to East Asia, it has spread widely through ballast water and is now established in several UK river systems. This species poses ecological and economic threats, burrowing into riverbanks and destabilising them, preying on native species, and outcompeting them for resources. The crab's catadromous lifecycle, where adults migrate to the sea to spawn, adds to its invasive potential.
eDNA testing (environmental DNA testing) offers a non-invasive method to detect crab populations. By analyzing water samples for genetic traces shed by the species, eDNA testing provides a highly sensitive and specific tool to confirm its presence without the need for traditional visual surveys.
Description
The Chinese mitten crab (Eriocheir sinensis) is an invasive crustacean in the UK, first recorded in the River Thames in the 1930s. Native to East Asia, it has spread widely through ballast water and is now established in several UK river systems. This species poses ecological and economic threats, burrowing into riverbanks and destabilising them, preying on native species, and outcompeting them for resources. The crab's catadromous lifecycle, where adults migrate to the sea to spawn, adds to its invasive potential.
eDNA testing (environmental DNA testing) offers a non-invasive method to detect crab populations. By analyzing water samples for genetic traces shed by the species, eDNA testing provides a highly sensitive and specific tool to confirm its presence without the need for traditional visual surveys.
How does it work?
Step 1: Buy your sampling kits in the Shop
Our sample collection kits ensure the DNA in your samples is preserved and protected during transit to our laboratory. We have kits for water, soil, scat and more.
Step 2: Collect your samples
Our molecular ecologists can advise you on sampling strategies and how to make the most of your budget
Step 3: Order your testing in the Portal
Register your samples online. Tell us which tests you want to order for each sample. Return the samples to us. We invoice you for the testing upon completion (we do reserve the right to charge for testing upfront if it is your first order). Alternatively, you can email your testing order to our team using the email in your kit.
Step 4: Receive your results
Your results will be sent to our secure online portal. If you need it, we can offer a free consultation to help you interpret your results.