Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) research has been drawing significant attention, especially as the Lone Star State enters one of its favorite times of the year—crawfish season.

The Australian redclaw crayfish (Cherax quadricarinatus) was first reported in Brownsville, Texas, in 2013. In 2022, additional reports confirmed the presence of both males and females, suggesting the potential for reproduction in the same area. TPWD flagged the crayfish as "present" and a concern. As of 2025, sightings of the redclaw continue to be reported around the wetlands of the Rio Grande Valley in Brownsville, TX. Due to the limited research on this species in Texas, TPWD and other authorities have decided to take a closer look.

The survey in Brownsville focuses on channels of the Rio Grande that have transformed into shallow wetlands and ponds, also referred to as resacas, to evaluate the potential impact of the redclaw crayfish on local ecosystems. Preliminary samples from traps and seine nets confirm the presence of the invasive crayfish. However, the quantity caught is encouraging when compared to the number of traps placed and the species' reproductive potential. Female redclaw crayfish can breed up to five times a year and produce up to 1,000 eggs per clutch. Adults can weigh up to two pounds and easily outcompete native crayfish and some fish species.

Despite its presence in Texas for over a decade, the invasive crayfish has not spread far beyond the Brownsville area. TPWD biologists have expressed optimism, noting that while the species is capable of rapid reproduction, its range in Texas appears to remain limited. Officials also reported that redclaws are unlikely to impact Texas crawfish farms at this time, particularly those in the northern and southeastern regions of the state, as the species has not been reported in farming areas.

Read the 2022 TPWD Press Release for more information about the description of Australian redclaw crayfish, how they can effect Texas wetlands, and additional information.

Watch the 2025 TPWD educational video about the current Australian redclaw crayfish research, HERE.

Frequently Asked Questions:

• Are redclaw crayfish safe to eat?
Like commercial crawfish, redclaw crayfish are safe for human consumption if prepared properly. However, in Texas, these invasives are not abundant enough to make it worthwhile to track down enough for a satisfying boil. Crayfish are elusive bottom dwellers that hide in mud or under debris, requiring active searching. But to each their own! If you believe you have seen an Australian redclaw crayfish, please take a picture and REPORT IT to invasives@shsu.edu.

• Is it legal to farm or sell redclaw crayfish?
The redclaw crayfish is currently classified as an exotic species in Texas and is illegal to buy, sell, or release into public waters. This means it cannot be farmed for food or human consumption.

• How did redclaw crayfish end up in Texas?
The introduction of this species is believed to be due to aquarium releases. Officials strongly advise against releasing animals into the wild or public waters. No matter how well-intentioned, this can lead to the establishment of invasive species and is often more harmful to the pet. Please seek alternative options.

Powered By the Pest

Insects play a crucial role as pollinators, predators, decomposers, and pests. Accurate identification is essential for distinguishing between beneficial and harmful insects, determining effective pest management strategies, and understanding ecosystems. However, many variables complicate manual identification.

A new tool, called InsectNet, has been developed to address these challenges and make insect identification easier for everyone. InsectNet uses deep learning and machine learning to automate insect identification in real-world conditions. It is powered by a dataset of over 12 million insect images (many provided by citizen scientists) allowing it to identify more than 2,500 insect species with over 96% accuracy. The system provides predictions on whether an insect is a pest, pollinator, predator, or serves another ecological role. Additionally, the app is designed to work across various insect life stages, from eggs to adults, and can identify insects from low-quality images, as well as those that appear camouflaged.

One of InsectNet’s key features is its ability to tailor predictions to local and regional ecosystems. Using a global-to-local approach, it fine-tunes its models and datasets to ensure higher accuracy for specific geographic areas. This customization makes the app especially useful for farmers and researchers and allows it to be applied worldwide. Currently, InsectNet is accessible through a web-based portal but is not yet available as a downloadable app. However, users can easily upload insect images via a QR code or URL to receive instant identification. The developers aim to foster broader collaboration and drive scientific advancements in agriculture with this open-source tool.

Read the Research: Chiranjeevi et al., 2025

Break the Chain of Love

Coral vine (Antigonon leptopus) is a rapidly growing weedy vine, native to Mexico, that can grow up to 25-50 feet. It has since been introduced to a little more than a handful of U.S. states in the southeast and gulf region (including TX) as an ornamental and landscaping plant. It spreads rapidly, grabbing hold and climbing with tendrils, forming underground tubers and large rootstalks. This allows it to flourish in areas where other plants can not, even in areas with poor soil (species page).

Nevertheless, it is still commonly sold as an ornamental due to its attractive white or pink heart-shaped flowers. In stores and online, Antigonon leptopus goes by many captivating names, such as: Mexican creeper, confederate vine, queen's wreath (or crown), pink rose of Montana, bride’s tears… the list goes on. Some names seem especially marketed towards the gift giving that takes place during the heartfelt holiday of Valentine’s Day. The most popular of these are: chain of love and Chinese love vine.

How does one plant have so many names? There isn’t a good answer for that, plant people love their names. Instead, there is a better question. Since this invasive species is sold under so many different names, how does one avoid accidental purchase and introduction? Before going to the store or making a purchase, check the local invasive species list and choose native alternatives that will best suit your area.

TI.org invasive plant database, HERE.
Invasive Plant Atlas of the United States, HERE

Don’t Mess With Texas Citrus

TISI is offering FREE diagnostic services if you suspect your citrus has either the psyllid pest or the Citrus Greening pathogen, or you would like your citrus plants to be part of our screening survey.

The Asian citrus psyllid (Diaphorina citri) and the Citrus Greening pathogen (Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus) are threatening citrus in multiple Texas counties. By taking samples and monitoring the spread, it is easier to ensure that you and your neighbors are not affected. This pest and pathogen are extremely detrimental to Texas citrus, both economically and agriculturally. The presence of either can greatly affect citrus yield.

If you are interested in having your citrus trees checked or being part of the survey, please contact invasives@shsu.edu. If you are located within 200 miles of our headquarters, we can collect samples and/or provide traps and monitoring services. Otherwise, we will send you easy step-by-step instructions so you can do it yourself. Not only will we share the results and management strategies (where applicable), but you will become part of a multi-county monitoring survey that strives to improve the health of Texas citrus!

Also Available: TISI offers educational workshops that highlight information about the Asian citrus psyllid, the pathogen Citrus Greening, and what you need to look out for in your own backyard. If you are interested in this, TISI will provide trapping materials, assist with management strategies, and more. Don’t waste another second- Help us stop the spread!

This program is designed to provide the education needed for professionals and students who are managing or learning to manage invasive species. The courses include the most current invasive species identification, control, and management techniques, and how to comply with local and federal regulations.

Participants may register and enroll at any time, and will receive a certificate of invasive species management from NAISMA upon completion of the program.

All live webinars are open to the public. Recorded webinars are available to members of NAISMA.

NAISMA 2025 Webinar Schedule:

• March 19, 1pm CST- Canadian Biocontrol Experience: Past, Present and Future. REGISTER.
• April 16, 1pm CST- Spotted Lanternfly in North America: Insights, Impacts, and Preparing for the Future. REGISTER.

Cedar Ridge Preserve Conservation-in-Action

Join the Cedar Ridge Preserve Conservation-in-Action Volunteer days that occur every 1st and 3rd Saturday of the month, from 8am- noon or 9am-12pm. Projects include trail maintenance, habitat restoration, prairie restoration, invasive species removal, painting, structure preserve, and trail cleanup. Volunteer parking is available.

Location: Cedar Ridge Preserve, 7171 Mountain Creek Parkway, Dallas, TX 75249

Clothing: Long sleeves, hat, and pants recommended. Closed toe shoes are required. Please note Poison Ivy is present. Bring sun protection and water.

For more information, click HERE.

For a fun and engaging way to make a lasting impression at conservation events, outreach activities, in the classroom, or while at home, try creating this 3-dimensional Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) model. Provided by York Region, this EAB model offers step-by-step instructions and image cut-outs that allow participants to build a representation of an adult Emerald Ash Borer (EAB, Agrilus planipennis).

The model also calls for the construction of an infested stump, complete with larval beetles and galleries beneath the bark. The EAB attacks ash trees, causing significant damage by burrowing under the bark and disrupting the tree’s ability to transport water and nutrients. By creating this model, participants can better understand the moments of the beetle life cycle that occur inside the tree- the time that poses the greatest threat to the host and the local ecosystems.

For the York Region EAB model, click HERE.

Invasive Spotlight:

English Ivy
(Hedera helix)

English ivy (Hedera helix) is a woody vine that can reach heights of 60-100 feet (20-30m) using aerial roots that strongly cling as it climbs. The leaves are simple, alternate, and 2-4 inches (5-10cm) long, with whitish veins. Juvenile leaves are dark green, palmate (palm-shaped), with three to five lobes, and glow off the creeping, climbing stem. Mature leaves are lighter green, cordate (heart-shaped) unlobed, and grow off the higher, fertile, flowering stems that are exposed to more sun. It takes approximately 10 years to reach maturity, at which point it begins to grow more like a shrub rather than a vine. It extends a woody stem from the ground, or climbing vine, to form a shrub structure with flower clusters and seed-bearing fruit. The flowers are greenish-yellow inflorescence, made up of multiple short flower stalks spread from a common point (umbels). English ivy produces purple-black to orange-yellow berries that each contain 1-5 seeds.

English ivy spreads through vegetative reproduction and seed dispersal. Any cutting or stem fragment that gains access to soil can take root and sprout. Shade tolerance allows early growth to occur even under dense stands. Flowers bloom from late summer until autumn, producing a rich nectar that is loved by flies, bees, and other pollinators. Ripe berries are enjoyed by many types of birds and dispersed long distances. The seeds must be scarified by the bird’s digestive tract to germinate. However, the toxic glycosides in the seeds often cause the bird to vomit. English ivy thrives in moist, open forests but is adaptable to a variety of soil, moisture, and conditions, including rocky cliffs.

These evergreen vines can stunt, weaken, and threaten host plants as well as the surrounding forest and open areas- from the ground to canopy. While the vine climbs, it twists around and engulfs branches, blocking light from reaching host foliage. Lower and middle branches dieback, leaving the tree top heavy and susceptible to blow-over during high winds or storms. The overall added weight of the ivy can make the tree more likely to break in similar circumstances. Moisture trapped by7 the vines can cause bark rot. On the ground, a vine will continue to grow, forming a dense and extensive monoculture that excludes native vegetation. English ivy also serves as a reservoir for Bacterial Leaf Scorch (Xylella fastidiosa), a plant pathogen that is harmful to elms, oaks, maples, and other native plants. Bacterial Leaf Scorch can be carried from the plant the plant by insects that feed on the ivy. English ivy can trigger dermatitis in sensitive individuals and the berries are toxic to humans if eaten.

English ivy resembled hundreds of horticultural varieties (400+) and native climbers, like the common wild grape (Vitis vinifera). However, wild grape can be distinguished by its climbing tendrils and large three-lobed leaves with toothed margins, smooth grapes and fruits that are not knobbed. English ivy also resembles other invasive species, like the Chinese yam (Dioscorea polystachya), Porcelain berry (Ampelopsis brevipedunculata), and other ivy species, such as: Persian (H. colchica), Irish (H. hibernica), and Boston(Parthenocissus tricuspidata).

*Easy way to distinguish English ivy from the list above: 1) non-deciduous ivy, 2) leaves = above mentioned size and shape 3) leave = hairy and scaly. Those listed above: leaves = smooth.

English ivy has been reported in 18 states, including Texas. For more information, gardening alternatives, or management inquiries, view the TISI species page, HERE. If you believe you have identified a patch of English ivy, please take a picture and REPORT IT to invasive@shsu.edu. Submissions are appreciated. We truly value your efforts and support.

Enjoy monthly videos about invasive species and/or people willing to teach us more about them. There are some amazing citizens and professionals around the world that poke, prod, chase, dive, and investigate everything they can about these alien invaders. Jump into this cinematic rabbit hole. You never know what new wonders you may discover.

Biocontrol of Brown Marmorated Stink Bug w/ the Samurai wasp. The Ohio State University.

Learn about the brief history of brown marmorated stink bug (Halyomorpha halys) and recent research on the discovery, rearing, and release of an egg parasitoid, the Samurai wasp (Trissolcus japonicus) - a biocontrol being used to help curb the stink bug population over time

Here is what can happen when you release your goldfish into the wild. KARE 11.

Goldfish (Carassius auratus) are regulated invasive species in North America. This means you can buy, sell, and transport them, but can't (and should NOT) release them in public waters. Releasing any kind of exotics or pets into the wild can cause unintended consequences. Goldfish are a prime example.

How Can Invasive Species Redefine Food? Delishtory.

Invasive species can have major impacts on habitats and ecosystems, but how do they redefine the food we eat? Many people are wondering if eating invasive species is a manageable solution.

Misusing Ecology: Study Warns Against Comparing Human Migration to Biological Invasions
Researchers suggest human migration policies should be guided by evidence and informed considerations rather than misleading comparisons dictated by invasion science terminology or narratives. phys.org

Cracking The Burmese Python Code: New Data Zeroes in On Game-Changing Strategies
Large amounts of data have been collected and analyzed by Burmese python (Python bivittatus) contractors. Using statistical modeling, the most efficient removal methods have been established for removing the invasive reptile. blogs.ifas.ufl.edu

Where Do Invasive Species Spread and Why? Researchers Take a Novel Approach to Find the Answer
Certain locations seem to be more susceptible and attractive to the establishment of non-native plants or animals, making them prime targets for these species to spread. Can researchers discover why? sciencedaily.com

Paws At the Border: Dogs Help Stop Invasive Pests Spread by Air Passengers
Air passengers pose a biosecurity risk when they either accidentally or purposely pack non-native materials during travel- emphasizing the value of border interventions such as detector dogs in mitigating these threats. phys.org

Researchers Uncover Shocking Information About Illegal Animal Trade — And It Could Impact Global Economic Security
After analyzing over two decades of U.S. wildlife trade data, scientists have seen a steady increase in the total number of exotic species being traded over time. thecooldown.com

Forest Landowner Motivation to Control Invasive Species Depends on Land Use, Study Shows
A new study explores how differences in motivation affects the willingness to control, and how economic incentives can be implemented most efficiently. extension.illinois.net

DNA Barcodes and Citizen Science Images Map Spread of Biocontrol Agent for Control of Major Invasive Shrub
Publicly shared DNA barcodes and citizen scientist images provided valuable record data for the biological control agent used for the control of the invasive shrub called Lantana camara. cabi.org

Research Provides Insights into Why Japanese Knotweed Is So Highly Invasive
Japanese knotweed (Reynoutria japonica) is highly invasive across Europe and North America. Researchers are working to uncover the secrets behind this plant’s success. phys.org

Invasive Tree Species Affect Terricolous Bryophytes Biomass and Biodiversity in Nutrient-Poor but Not Nutrient-Rich Temperate Forests
Invasive tree species impact terricolous bryophytes, but the effect of invader abundance has been insufficiently analyzed. A recent study focused on the effects invasive trees have on bryophytes on nutrient-rich/nutrient-poor sites along a gradient of invader biomass. nature.com

Balancing Action and Acceptance Amidst Rapid Environmental Change
Prioritizing management and allocating recourses to locations that would provide the “greatest relief” or be the “most feasible” can be difficult decisions. Maybe mathematical programming can form decision theories to support rational decision-making. nature.berkeley.edu

Invaders of Texas workshops train volunteers to detect and report invasive species as citizen scientists. Workshops, which are free, are designed to introduce participants to invasive species and the problems they cause, cover aspects of invasive species management, teach identification of local invasive plants, and train participants to report invasive plants using the TX Invaders mobile application. The workshop is 7 hours long (usually on a Saturday, but scheduling is arranged with each individual host group). The workshop satisfies Master Naturalist training requirements.

Sentinel Pest Network workshops serve to increase the awareness and early detection of a set of particularly important invasive species to help prevent their spread into Texas or their further spread within Texas. Participants learn to identify species such as the Emerald Ash Borer, Cactus Moth, Asian Longhorned Beetle, and other pests of regulatory significance, and to report them. The workshop is 3.5 hours long. The workshop satisfies Master Naturalist training requirements.