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General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean

Research programme
Blue crabs

Two large non-indigenous species of blue crab, the American blue crab (Callinectes sapidus) and the blue swimming crab (Portunus segnis) have been present in the Mediterranean for several decades. Both species have a high reproductive capacity and strong potential to expand their range. They are known for their problematic interactions with the local fauna and with traditional fishing gear, in which they may become entangled, causing damage to both the catch and the nets. As a result, their spread across the Mediterranean has raised concerns among fishing communities.

In response, the GFCM launched in 2022 a dedicated regional research programme on blue crab in order to improve understanding of their population status and support sustainable fisheries.

Coverage

Blue crabs

Focus countries
Algeria, Croatia, Cyprus, Egypt, Greece, Italy, Montenegro, Morocco, Slovenia, Spain, Tunisia, Türkiye

Period
2022–2026

Objectives

The main objective of the research programme was to establish a coordinated science-based framework for the sustainable management of blue crab fisheries in the Mediterranean.

Activities

The research programme was structured around six specific objectives, each corresponding to a dedicated work package:

  • WP 1. Biological and ecological knowledge
    Collect comprehensive information on the biological and ecological characteristics of the two blue crab species to support responsible and informed fisheries management
  • WP 2. Fisheries-independent data collection
    Collect fisheries-independent data to provide additional information on catch composition and on the broader faunistic community affected by blue crab populations
  • WP 3. Fisheries-dependent data collection
    Collect fisheries-independent data to provide additional information on catch composition and on the broader faunistic community affected by blue crab populations
  • WP 4. Stock assessment
    Establish an ad hoc framework for blue crab stock assessment, considering both the species’ habitats and the specific characteristics of the fisheries
  • WP 5. Value chain and socioeconomic aspects
    Analyse the technical, technological and socioeconomic aspects of blue crab fisheries
  • WP 6. Management measures
    Develop adaptive management measures at the local, national and regional levels to keep blue crab populations at low levels

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