The Society for the Protection of Nature in Israel was urging citizens to report sightings of an invasive crab species along Israel's coasts, known as "Matuta victor" or the Common Moon Crab. Originating from the region between the Pacific and Indian Oceans, the species was first sighted in the eastern Mediterranean in 2012 in Haifa Bay and has since rapidly spread along Israel's shores. Matuta Victor ( Video: Dr.
Shay Shafir ) Researchers believe activities in Haifa Bay may have contributed to its spread, although definitive evidence is lacking. The crab has also made its way to neighboring regions, including Lebanon, Turkey, Greece, and Cyprus. "We are trying to create an updated map of its spread with the help of the public," said Alon Rothschild, Director of Biodiversity at the Society for the Protection of Nature in Israel.
"The crab is known for its aggressive behavior and omnivorous predation, including instances of cannibalism," explained Bar Sternbach, coordinator of SeaWatch and marine projects at the Society for the Protection of Nature in Israel. "It competes with local species for food and may drive them out. The crab feeds on clams, other crabs, and fish, creating significant predation pressure on native species.
Its presence can disrupt local food chains, alter the composition and structure of populations, and affect the balance of the entire ecosystem. Pollution and infrastructure projects along Israel's coasts have created favorable conditions for the invasiv.
