An Update of the Classification, Status, and Distribution of Canadian Freshwater Crayfishes

Abstract

There are presently twelve species of freshwater crayfishes recognized in Canada. Due to the recent reclassification of three of the genera present in Canada as well as the discovery of an additional species of the burrowing Paintedhand Mudbug, there arose some confusion with respect to the nomenclature as well as the total number of species found in Canada. This review updates the taxonomy, status, distribution and nomenclature of Canadian freshwater crayfishes. A new and updated taxonomic key to the Canadian species is provided. The possible invasions of Canadian waters by the Red Swamp Crawfish as well as the Marbled Crayfish are discussed.