Huge Chinese crabs threaten fish

An exotic Chinese crab which can grow to the size of a dinner plate is making its way into Britain's rivers.

Studies show that the mitten crab can threaten local marine life like crayfish and salmon, and even damage riverbanks by burrowing into them.

They've swept through European waters in the past 100 years, after being brought over in ships, and have now been spotted in the UK.

Experts say something should be done to stop the crabs before it's too late.

Mitten crabs Scientific name: Eriocheir sinensis Live in fresh water Breed in the sea Can be eaten raw Adults size of a dinner plate From Fukien province in China

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The mitten crabs get their names because they have small clumps of brown fur on their claws, like little gloves!

Scientists say the invasion of the crabs could be like the way grey squirrels from America have pushed native red squirrels to extinction.

They think there should be a nationwide scheme to monitor and catch the crabs, and are asking anglers to keep their eyes out for the invading beasties.