A large population of the rare stone crayfish was discovered in Rokycany
A survey of the Rakovský Brook in Rokycany confirmed that stone crayfish thrive in this area. Experts have discovered a very large population of this rare species.
During the survey of the stream, a number of potential crayfish roosts, such as rocks or under-bank areas, were searched, and then it was determined how many individuals could be found in a certain number of roosts.
As stated by crustacean expert David Fischer, each occurrence of the stone crayfish is considered exceptional, as it only lives in about forty locations in the entire country. In the Rakovský brook, its population has a high density compared to the others, and the crayfish live here directly in the village, which is rather exceptional. It is also a population that is tied to a relatively recently revegetated channel.
The Rakovsky brook hides a number of treasures
In addition to the rare crayfish, there is also a large population of brook trout in the Rokycany stream. In the vicinity of the stream we can find, for example, a very rare blue butterfly.
“In my opinion, however, the most important thing is that the research at Rakovský Brook has shown that it is possible to combine nature protection with flood protection measures, increasing the aesthetic value of the area, and even using the area for recreational purposes. Man and nature can live in symbiosis, even in an urban environment – a finding that we would like to pass on in future research,” said David Fischer.
