An international research team involving experts from Germany, Austria, and Hungary, led by Martin Bláha and Antonín Kouba from the Faculty of Fisheries and Protection of Waters, University of South Bohemia in České Budějovice, has documented the first occurrences of the oriental river prawn (Macrobrachium nipponense) in Central Europe. This non-native freshwater shrimp, native to East Asia, was first discovered in 2023 in Racklau Harbour in Passau, Germany, and the Szigetköz floodplain near Lipót, Hungary. In both locations, multiple size classes were observed, including ovigerous females, indicating that self-sustaining populations have been established.
These findings mark a substantial leap from the species' known European non-native range, discovered recently in the lower Danube, and raise concerns about its potential spread and ecological impacts. Oriental river prawn is known for its broad environmental tolerance, fast growth, and high reproductive output, making it a high-risk invasive species. Its introduction is suspected to be linked to the pet trade or ballast water transport, whereas the natural upstream spread is considered of secondary importance.
Given the species' potential to disrupt native biodiversity, we call for immediate attention to detailed monitoring and targeted research. Environmental education, responsible pet ownership, and improved biosecurity measures are key to preventing further spread.
Detailed information can be found in the original article:
Bláha, M., Schrottenbaum, A., Weiperth, A., Hammerschmied, U., Graf, G., Csányi, B., Patoka, J., Kouba, A., 2025. Macrobrachium nipponense continues to spread in the Danube: first records in Germany and Hungary. Knowledge and Management of Aquatic Ecosystems, 426, 9. https://doi.org/10.1051/kmae/2025004
