First Detection of the Crayfish Plague Pathogen Aphanomyces astaci in Costa Rica: European Mistakes Should Not Be Repeated

The crayfish plague pathogen Aphanomyces astaci is one of the main factors responsible for decline in European and Asian native species. This was transported to these regions through its natural carriers, North American species, which were introduced during last century. Since then, carrier species have spread worldwide due globalization highly invasive nature In Europe, five been categorized as high-risk they are loss provisioning services, endangers freshwater ecosystems. red swamp Procambarus clarkii , particular, currently most concerning threatens biodiversity ecosystems worldwide. this study, we describe first detection A. an population P. Central America, specifically Costa Rica. Using molecular approaches, analyzed 48 samples collected from Reservoir Cachí detected presence four samples. introduction incorrect management (related fishery commercialization live specimens) over past decades Europe mistakes that should not be repeated elsewhere. a warning sign about dangerous impact may have, only emerging disease but also direct risk invaded Our results serve (1) assess current future consequences, (2) research activities, such determining potential impacts on decapod or other used aquaculture purposes, Cherax quadricarinatus .