Crayfish  is considered an invasive alien animal which coud harm the country’s bio-diversification and agricultural productions. — VNA/VNS Photo

HÀ NỘI  — The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development has urged local authorities, the General Department of Việt Nam Customs and the Market Watch General Department to tighten control over the trade and consumption of crayfish.

The move follows media reports that red-claw crayfish or crawfish (Cherax quadricarinatus) is being imported and sold as food in localties in Việt Nam.

According to the ministry, crayfish is considered an invasive, alien animal to Việt Nam. It can harm the country’s bio-diversity and agricultural production as it can eat both live and dead animals and plants. Crayfish can also easily carry and spread disease to shrimp, and can burrow in and destroy dykes.

Crayfish is not on the list of aquaculture species eligible for trade in Việt Nam, the ministry said.

Online stores are offering crayfish at prices of VNĐ350,000–VNĐ 500,000 (US$15-22) per kilo. The crayfish are reportedly imported from China and the US. — VNS