Invasive Crayfishes in the Great Lakes: Current Status and Management Options

Session: 03. - Science and Policy for Management of Invasive Crayfish

Reuben Keller, Loyola University Chicago, [email protected]

Abstract

Invasive crayfishes are dominant organisms that can affect all trophic levels in freshwater ecosystems. In the Great Lakes Basin the highest profile invader has been the rusty crayfish (Orconectes rusticus) which is known to reduce biodiversity, eliminate macrophytes from some lakes, and cause economic impacts by reducing populations of sportfishes. There is concern that the recent invasion of red swamp crayfish (Procambarus clarkii) will cause additional impacts, and many other species could be introduced through the trades in live organisms, pets, and biological supplies. This presentation will review the history of non-native crayfishes in the Great Lakes Basin, including timing, vectors, impacts, and patterns of spread. Next, the potential for future impacts will be presented considering both the further spread of existing species and the introduction of new species. I will concentrate on recent experimental results looking at competition between the red swamp and rusty crayfishes, the outcome of which will be important for future spread of these species. Finally, I will discuss the effectiveness of existing management approaches and the potential advantages from a more coordinated approach. Additional sharing of expertise along with management that is harmonized across the Basin holds the potential to reduce future impacts.

1. Keyword
invasive species

2. Keyword
crustaceans

3. Keyword
risk assessment

4. Additional Keyword
Rusty crayfish

5. Additional Keyword
Red swamp crayfish