Resolution of the Council of Ministers No. 133/2021 approving the national action plan for the control of the Louisiana crawfish in mainland Portugal.

This Resolution approving the national action plan for the control of the Louisiana crawfish (Procambarus clarkii) within mainland Portugal inland water. The proliferation of invasive alien species that threaten ecosystems, habitats or species is identified in the National Strategy for the Conservation of Nature and Biodiversity 2030 (ENCNB 2030), approved by Council of Ministers Resolution No. 55/2018 of 7 May, as one of the main threats to biodiversity and that affects natural values in Portuguese territory. The action plan for the control of the Louisiana crawfish in mainland Portugal aims as specific objectives to establish a control and containment system for the population of this species, to identify sensitive areas for some species of autochthonous plants or animals where it will be necessary to reduce the quantity of these crustacean species, keeping its population at control levels, minimizing the damage caused by it, but still allow its positive effects as an important prey in the diet of local fauna, as well as to establish a capture plan for this species, as a control and containment method.