Turning invasive crabs into a valuable resource

Around the world, invasive species are a growing threat, with adverse consequences for biodiversity, health and local economies. About 12 trillion invasive crabs are creating havoc off the coast of Denmark, threatening to outcompete native fish species and damaging the fishermen’s catch. Apart from ruining fishing nets with their sharp claws, they damage riverbanks by burrowing into them, lakes and reservoirs and alter the natural habitat of native wildlife.

Now the Danish company Fejø Krabber has laid a plan to tackle the challenge by turning a challenging pest into a 100% useful resource.

Invasive species are a growing challenge. by working together, companies and universities can turn them into a valuable resource

A rich protein source

Fejø Krabber has partnered with Danish universities to find ways to turn the crabs into value. One promising idea focuses on using crab protein and other nutrients to improve the diets of elderly people with a small appetite. At an innovation competition hosted by the Technical University of Denmark, a team developed a recipe for a tasty crab bisque. They also proposed to turn the crab by-products into flour for use in snacks or pet food.

Better marine environment

The crabs are not just a good source of nutrition. Every time a fisherman pulls a ton of crabs out of the water, they remove about 16 kilos of phosphorus and nitrogen – a cause of oxygen depletion. This opportunity to improve the marine environment makes Fejø Krabber even more determined to succeed with its mission: to convert invasive crabs into business.