A €20,000 project is underway in valleys in Bahrija, Mosta and Mellieha to study the environmental impact of crayfish and identify the best way to control this invasive species.

The project includes the installation of traps at Wied il-Bahrija, Wied Zejtuna and Wied l-Isperanza. It is being carried out in conjunction between Parks Malta, the University of Malta and the Environment and Resources Authority (ERA).

Environment Minister Aaron Farrugia and Tourism Minister Julia Farrugia Portelli were briefed about the project during a visit to Wied il-Bahrija on Tuesday morning.

The alien species has invaded parts of the three valleys and is potentially harming the ecosystem and indigenous species, like the Maltese freshwater crab (il-Qabru).

Farrugia Portelli said we have a duty to protect the ecosystems found in our valleys. Endemic species should be protected and valleys should be retained in their natural state, she said.

Aaron Farrugia said one of ERA's roles is to safeguard endemic and protected species. This requires the removal of invasive species that threaten the ecosystem.

Professor Alan Deidun explained that the red swamp crayfish, which was recently introduced to a number of valleys, causes great harm to local fauna. The crayfish, which has no natural enemies, feeds on crab and frog eggs. He said more research is needed to fully understand the ecologial impact of this species and how best to control it.

Alexander Borg Galea, the official in charge of valley management, said the study will determine whether the current control methodology needs to be changed.

Scientific consultant Arnold Sciberras said the traps being used were used for research abroad but have been adapted for local requirements. The traps are purposely designed to only catch crayfish.

The crayfish caught during this study will be used as feed for reptiles.