Washington captures record 2.16 million invasive green crabs, but experts warn invasion is far from over

Washington state removed more than 2.16 million invasive European green crabs during fiscal year 2025-26.

First detected in the state in 2016, the species threatens native marine life, including clams, oysters and eelgrass.

Despite more than $8 million in state funding, no established populations have been eradicated, and researchers warn the invasion could worsen.