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| Q & A |
| Crayfish |
| Question |
| I often catch crayfish in a stream near my home to use as bait. I've noticed that
there seems to be more than one kind. How many different species of crayfish are there around Pennsylvania? |
| Answer |
 Unfortunately, the information that we have about the current status of crayfish
species occurrence and abundance is limited. No comprehensive statewide surveys of crayfish species have been completed
since the turn of the century when A.E. Ortmann recorded much of what is now the historic baseline data for PA crayfishes.
As far as we know 13 species may occur in Pennsylvania. All are of the family Cambaridae. (At the end of this
document is a list of the likely species.)
At the Commission's urging, there are two research projects by the Wild Resource Conservation Fund
that will begin to address the lack of information regarding these important crustaceans. One will attempt
to develop a photographic key to the Pennsylvania species for use by persons such as yourself. The other
project would involve researchers in a coordinated effort to determine the statewide distribution of
crayfishes in Pennsylvania and compare that to the early 1900's data.
Across North America most researchers are beginning to realize that aquatic invertebrates are the most endangered
of all species due to alterations of the aquatic environment. Freshwater mussels are highest on the
list of concern but crayfishes are running a close second. We expect to see increased interest, studies
and new information about these species becoming available in the next few years. For now, if you wish
to attempt identifications the best source may be to check out a copy of "Freshwater Invertebrates of the U.S." by
Robert W. Pennak. A university library is your best bet.
Species in the Family Cambaridae likely in Pennsylvania
- Cambarus b. burtonii
- Cambarus burtonii cairnirostris
- Camabrus diogenes
- Cambarus dubius
- Cambarus mongalensis
- Cambarus robustus
- Cambarus thomai
- Orconectes linosus
- Orconectes obscurus
- Orconectes propinqus
- Orconectes rusticus
- Orconectes virilis
- Procambarus acutus
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