Missouri fish farmers and bait shops are asking state conservation officials to reconsider a ban on selling crawfish that goes into effect Sept. 1.
Conservation officials say nonnative varieties of the critter, also known as "crayfish" and "crawdads," are being introduced into lakes and streams by anglers who dump their live bait into the water.
They say invasive species can push out the native varieties and bring parasites that can harm ecosystems.
But opponents like the Missouri Aquaculture Association and Missouri Farm Bureau say state officials never consulted those who stand to lose the most from the ban.
Both groups say fish farms and bait shops stand to lose hundreds of thousands of dollars because of a ban they don't see any reason for having.
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