New Research from the UArctic Thematic Network on Ocean Food Systems Explores Red King Crab Management in Norway
The UArctic Thematic Network on Ocean Food Systems has contributed to two new studies examining the ecological, economic, and social dimensions of red king crab management in northern Norway. Together, the publications highlight both the challenges of managing an invasive species and the importance of understanding diverse stakeholder perspectives.
Managing an invasive species that has become a valuable fishery: Lessons from Norway's red king crab
How can we control an invasive species when it also generates substantial economic benefits? A new study published in Marine Resource Economics explores this dilemma through Norway's red king crab fishery. Using a bioeconomic model, the researchers show how spatial management, harvesting incentives and illegal fishing can interact in unexpected ways over time and space, potentially undermining efforts to control the species' spread. The findings highlight the importance of accounting for fishers' behavioural responses when designing policies that seek to balance ecological protection and commercial exploitation.
Xuan B.B, Armstrong, C.W., Kourantidou, M. Vondolia, G.K., Ngoc, Q.T.K. Kaiser, B.A. 2026. Bioeconomic analysis of managing an invasive species that is both a value and a pest. Marine Resource Economics. Vol 41, Issue 3. https://doi.org/10.1086/740802
An invasive species, a valuable resource: How stakeholders perceive the red king crab in Norway
The invasive red king crab in the Barents Sea represents both an ecological threat and an economically valuable resource. But do scientists, fishers and local communities perceive its benefits and impacts in the same way? A new study forthcoming in Ocean and Society examines these differences through surveys of three stakeholder groups in northern Norway. The findings reveal contrasting perspectives: local residents express greater concern about the crab's spread, while fishers place greater emphasis on its economic benefits. The study highlights the importance of incorporating diverse stakeholder perspectives into management decisions, particularly when ecological protection and economic interests may conflict.
Aanesen, M., Falk-Andersson, J., Kaiser, B. A., Kourantidou, M., Navrud, S., Sandorf, E. D., & Wu, X. (2027). Benefits and threats of invasive alien species: Stakeholder perceptions of the red king crab. Ocean and Society, 4, Article 13025. https://doi.org/10.17645/oas.13025 (The paper is currently in proof stage.)