India, Feb. 12 -- An invasive crayfish species native to Australia was spotted in the waters of southern Texas-nearly 8,000 miles from its natural habitat. The unexpected sighting has alarmed aquatic biologists, who fear its spread could disrupt local ecosystems and threaten native wildlife.

The Australian redclaw crayfish was recently spotted by locals in the Rio Grande Valley near Brownsville, along the western Gulf Coast. This large-bodied crustacean is recognized for its blue-green shell with red and maroon markings.

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the species can grow up to 10 inches in length and weigh approximately 1.3 pounds. Typically found in tropical and subtropical regions, it thrives in coa...