Crayfish
About Crayfish :
Crayfish, also known as crawfish or crawdads belong to the family of Astacoidea and Parastacoidea. They are freshwater crustaceans, which resembles to small lobsters and are closely related to them. They have two pairs of antennae, which are very sensitive and have four pairs of legs for walking. The crayfish also have a pair of chelipeds, which are used to cut and attack on their prey. These chelipeds also provide protection from their enemies. The most important characteristic is its outside skeleton, which is very hard and often provides protection. They have feather-like gills to breathe and are found in fresh running water like brooks and streams. They choose this place as they have shelter against predators. They feed on plants and animals, which are either dead or living.
There are three families of the crayfish. The two of these families are found in the northern hemisphere and one is found in the southern hemisphere. The one, which is found in southern hemisphere called family Parastacidae, are found in South America, Madagascar and Australasia. While the other two families, which are members of the Astacidae are found in western Eurasia and western North America. Crayfish grows generally up to a size of 7.5 cm. The largest species of this family is Astacopsis gouldi, which is a native of Tasmania and grow up to a size of 40 cm in length.
Crayfish Behavior :
These are common in lakes and streams and they often try to hide under logs or rocks. They become more active at nights and feed mostly on algae, snails, worms and tadpoles. They walk slowly but can swim backward if they sense danger or to escape from their enemies.
Crayfish Reproduction :
They mate in the month of October or November, but the fertilization and laying of eggs takes place in the following spring.
Crayfish Predators :
There are many predators of the crayfish. They are painted turtle, grackle, desman, chicken turtle, alligators and burbots.
Crayfish recipes :
The crayfish are very famous in France. They are cooked very deliciously in France and are commonly known as ecrevisses. In US, they are found in the waters of the Mississippi basin, and many Louisianans. They are cooked in different manners as one likes. Their meat is sweet, which can be picked out of their tiny shells.
Crayfish fishing :
The crayfish fishing is done usually with a small minnow net. They are found in small rocky streams. It is recommended to fish them with bait or lure. The best places for fishing crayfish can be shallow and rocky places.
Crayfish Care :
Crayfish are one of the most fascinating and beautiful creatures to keep in the home aquarium. There are about 150 different species. They are found in a different color pattern ranging from brown to red or yellow to green. They have a life span of (2-3) years but may live more if taken care properly.
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