Research and analysis

Guidance on habitat for white-clawed crayfish

The aim of this manual is to give guidance on habitat management strategies for the white-clawed crayfish.

Documents

Guidance on Habitat for White-clawed crayfish

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Details

The white-clawed crayfish (Austropotamobius pallipes) is the only native species of freshwater crayfish in Britain and the largest freshwater crustacean. Although locally abundant in some areas of England and Wales, the white-clawed crayfish has declined dramatically in recent years. It is under threat throughout its range in Britain and in other areas of Europe. The principal causes of decline are competition from nonnative crayfish and a lethal disease (crayfish plague) carried by introduced species.

Updates to this page

Published 1 January 2003

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