Mating Behavior and Morphology of Imported Mexican Freshwater Crayfish (Cambarellinae: Cambaridae) in Japan

Abstract

In the present study, for the first time the Mexican freshwater crayfish reported in the Japanese aquarium pet trade is identified as Cambarellus patzcuarensis. This diagnosis is based on the morphological description of key characters, such as the gastric mill, mandible, and gill, which are also illustrated. Information on the introduction history and legislation of the species in Japan is provided. Mating behaviour of the species was observed under laboratory conditions and is described.