BANGOR DAILY NEWS • October 26, 2021
For the past few years, the Gulf of Maine Research Institute has spearheaded a citizen science project where students identify and catalogue two invasive crab species — the European green crab and the Asian shore crab — along with native crabs. Recently, students from Kennebunk High School counted the most crabs that the institute has ever seen in one area. The record-setting numbers are indicative of an exploding invasive crab population, which wreaks havoc on Maine’s fisheries and coastal ecosystems by eating their way through local shellfish and outcompeting native species. By enlisting local students to help count the populations, scientists are collecting more data and also inspiring the next generation of environmental activists.