Endangered Horseshoe Crabs Vital In Medical Research, Charles River Lab Commits To Enhanced Protection

Charles River Laboratories International Inc CRL has joined hands with four significant entities in a pioneering move to amplify protections for the horseshoe crabs and the red knots bird species in South Carolina. 

The agreement lays down a roadmap for five years.

Horseshoe crabs are globally recognized for their unique milky-blue blood that plays a pivotal role in detecting bacterial contamination in intravenous drugs and medical implants. 

Due to its widespread usage, particularly in safety tests for medical products—including those pivotal for COVID-19 vaccines—the horseshoe crab population has dwindled, earning a vulnerable status by the International Union for Conservation of Nature.

Reuters noted that the decline of horseshoe crabs in the intertwined fabric of our ecosystem directly impacts the red knots bird species, which are federally listed as threatened. These birds primarily feed on the eggs of horseshoe crabs.

The new agreement curtails the collection of horseshoe crabs across more than 30 islands lining the South Carolina coast. 

One of the significant mandates also prohibits placing female horseshoe crabs in holding ponds. 

This ensures they remain free to spawn on South Carolina's beaches, bolstering the crab population.

This coalition for a cause comprises the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, Gault Seafood, Marsh Point Farm, and the Southern Environmental Law Center. The latter represents both the Defenders of Wildlife and the Coastal Conservation League.

Price Action: CRL shares closed at $198.62 on Thursday.