Regulation: 50 CFR 16, Importation or Shipment of Injurious Wildlife

This regulation lists the Chinese mitten crab as a federally injurious species, making it illegal to import, transport, acquire, or release into the wild live crabs or viable eggs thereof. 50 CFR 16.13 was amended in 1989 in response to the discovery of live Chinese mitten crabs in San Francisco markets, as well as the knowledge of Europe's past troubles with this pest species. Under 50 CFR 16.22, it is possible to import injurious species, such as the mitten crab, for zoological, educational, medical, or scientific purposes with a permit. However, there are stringent guidelines and a review process with numerous checks during this permitting process.

created 5/4/98