Rusty Crayfish
Rusty crayfish displace native crayfish, reduce the amount and kinds of aquatic plants, decrease the density and variety of invertebrates and reduce some fish populations.
Common Name: Rusty crayfish
Scientific Name: Orconectes rusticus
Native Range: Ohio River Basin
Background
Rusty crayfish can be identified by their robust claws, and by dark rusty spots on each side of their carapace. The spots are situated as though the crayfish was picked up by someone with red paint on their forefinger and thumb.
Habitat
Rusty crayfish inhabit lakes, ponds and streams. They prefer areas that offer rocks, logs or other debris as cover.
NYS Distribution Map
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Identification
Adult rusty crayfish are 3-5 inches long. They have a dark, rust-colored spot on the side of their bodies and black bands at the tips of the pincers.
Impact
Rusty crayfish displace native crayfish, reduce the amount and kinds of aquatic plants, decrease the density and variety of invertebrates and reduce some fish populations.
Prevention and Control
Intensive harvesting can be used to reduce adult populations and minimize some impacts. Restoring predators like bass and sunfish populations may also aid in managing their population. The best method is to prevent their introduction by educating anglers, crayfish trappers, bait dealers and teachers about the threats posed by rusty crayfish.
