Red Swamp Crayfish

Procambarus clarkii

The Red Swamp Crayfish (Procambarus clarkii) is a medium-sized freshwater crustacean native to the southern United States and northeastern Mexico, though it has become a widespread and invasive species in many parts of the world. Recognizable by its vibrant red coloration, this crayfish can grow up to 12 cm in length and is distinguished by its robust claws. It thrives in a variety of aquatic environments, including marshes, ditches, rivers, and reservoirs, displaying a remarkable adaptability to different water conditions and temperatures. Procambarus clarkii is known for its opportunistic feeding habits, consuming a diet that includes plants, invertebrates, and detritus. This species plays a dual role in ecosystems: while providing a food source for various predators, it also poses challenges due to its potential to disrupt local aquatic habitats. Its resilience and adaptability have made it a popular species for aquaculture and a common subject in biological research, but these same traits have also contributed to its status as a significant invasive species in non-native regions.