Italy releases octopuses to combat invasive blue crab threat

Researchers in Italy have launched the ‘Octo-Blu’ project, releasing between 40,000 and 150,000 young octopuses into the Adriatic Sea to combat the invasive blue crab population. The initiative, led by the University of Bologna in collaboration with the Emilia-Romagna regional government, aims to protect local aquaculture and shellfish industries.

The invasive blue crabs have caused significant economic damage, destroying fishing nets and devastating clam and mussel beds. In some areas, clam production has dropped by as much as 70 percent. The project utilizes the natural predatory instincts of the common octopus, which can consume up to four blue crabs per day once mature.

To support the survival of the released paralarvae, scientists have deployed artificial underwater shelters. The regional government has allocated millions of euros to support fishing and aquaculture businesses affected by the crab proliferation, including 3.5 million euros since 2023 and additional funds planned for 2026.