Study on Phototaxis and Food-Inducing Effects in Procambarus clarkii

Abstract

As a globally significant freshwater aquaculture species, Procambarus clarkii has attracted considerable attention due to its economic value. Understanding its behavioral characteristics is crucial for improving aquaculture practices. This study systematically investigated the effects of different light conditions and feeding attractants on P. clarkii behavior. Results demonstrated that phototactic responses were highly dependent on light wavelength and intensity. Under blue light (10 lx, 50 min exposure), the highest phototaxis rate (36.7%) was observed, whereas red light (5–40 lx) exhibited a significant repelling effect (phototaxis index: −0.419 to −0.270). Among tested feeding attractants, 1.5% allicin showed the strongest attraction efficiency (F = 0.42), significantly outperforming other compounds. Based on these findings, we developed an integrated trapping protocol: “10 lx blue light + 50 min exposure + 1.5% allicin,” which offers a cost-effective, environmentally friendly, and operationally simple solution for P. clarkii management. This study not only advances fundamental knowledge of crustacean behavioral ecology but also provides a practical and scalable approach for enhancing aquaculture efficiency.