Biology Of Freshwater Crayfish

Crayfish are the largest, mobile freshwater invertebrates with some 540 recognised species. They are of long standing interest to anatomists and physiologists. For their great commercial importance as a human food delicacy, crayfish are now becoming of wider interest to molecular biologists, and also to conservationists due to the fact that in some countries many of the native crayfish species are under threat from human activity, disease, and competition from other introduced crayfish species. This fully comprehensive book covers all major aspects of these important animals, including taxonomy, anatomy, evolution, growth and reproduction, behaviour, ecology, physiology, conservation, genetics, immunology, environmental aspects, and diseases. There are separate chapters on each genus of crayfish of commercial importance. Written by 22 well-known experts, Biology of Freshwater Crayfish has been carefully edited by David Holdich, internationally recognised for his work with these animals. The book is an essential purchase for anyone involved with the biology or exploitation of crayfish, including freshwater and invertebrate biologists and personnel involved in fisheries and aquaculture. Libraries in all universities and research establishments where biological sciences, fisheries or aquaculture are studied or taught should have copies of this important book on their shelves. Also available from Blackwell Publishing Freshwater Prawn Culture Edited by M. New & W. C. Valenti 0 632 05602 9 Krill Edited by I. Everson 0 632 05565 0 Spiny Lobsters Fisheries and Culture Edited by B. Phillips 0 85238 264 2 Crustacean Farming Second edition J. Wickins & D. O'C Lee 0 632 05464 6 Freshwater Biology (Journal) Published monthly ISSN: 0046 5070 To view our full range of fish related titles, visit our exciting website www.fishknowledge.com Editor is world leader in crayfish biology. Essential reading for anyone involved in crayfish biology or exploitation. Chapters by world's leading experts in crayfish. Covers commercially important species in depth.

Written by world experts in astacology, this book covers a range of aspects of the biology and ecology of freshwater crayfish. With a strong focus on wild crayfish, the book studies the taxonomy and genetics of this interesting group of animals. Under examination also are crayfish growth and reproduction, with detailed illustrations; behavior and c

For their great commercial importance as a human food delicacy, crayfish are now becoming of wider interest to molecular biologists, and also to conservationists due to the fact that in some countries many of the native crayfish species are under threat from human activity, disease, and competition from other introduced crayfish species. Helmed by three editors in Japan, Europe, and the US, this book invites contributions from experts around the globe, covering the conservation status and biology of all endangered species, taxonomy, and distribution of crayfishes worldwide.

Integrating research into freshwater biodiversity and the role of keystone species, this fascinating book presents freshwater crayfish as representatives of human-exacerbated threats to biodiversity and conservation. It uses examples from these and other large decapod invertebrates to explore how communities function and are controlled, alongside the implications of human demands and conflicts over limited resources, notably the severe impacts on biodiversity. The discussion is structured around three key topics – the present situation of crayfish in world freshwater ecosystems, the applications of science to conservation management and knowledge transfer for successful crayfish management. It outlines the historic exploitation of crayfish, addressing the problems caused by invasive alien forms and explaining the importance of correct identification when dealing with conservation issues. Offering a global perspective on freshwater systems, the book ultimately highlights how the conservation of such large and long-lived species will help protect ecosystem quality in the future.

Crustacean Farming: Ranching and Culture, Second edition. John F. Wickins and Daniel O'C Lee. The second edition of an extremely well-received book, Crustacean Farming, deals with all cultivated crustaceans of commercial significance, shrimp, prawns, crayfish, lobsters, crabs, and spiny lobsters, and examines the criteria by which both the feasibility and desirability of farming proposals are assessed. The characteristics and production methods of farmed and candidate crustacean species are described in sufficient detail to enable areas of profitable involvement to be distinguished form other opportunities presenting only very high risks and possibilities for serious loss. Coverage extends right from broodstock acquisition and management through to the operation of hatcheries, nurseries and on-growing units to key aspects of processing and marketing. New to this second edition are ranching and re-stocking operations together with the culture of ornamental shrimp and small crustaceans used as live food in fish and shellfish hatcheries. The sections on crustacean diseases, genetics and nutrition have been extended in the light of recent research advances. Examples of investment and operating costs of the different culture options are compared and an analysis of current trends in world crustacean markets is presented to assist in economic and financial appraisal. Special consideration is given to the place of crustacean farming within the economics of developing nations in relation to social and environmental impact in order to promote awareness of the wider implications of global developments. The consequences of recent research and technical developments are considered, together with concerns over genetic and animal welfare issues. Specific areas where further advances in technology are needed to improve the reliability or productivity of farming systems are highlighted. This important book is a vital tool and reference work for all those involved with crustacean farming worldwide.

Invasive species have come to dominate 3% of the Earth’s ice-free surface, constituting one of the most serious ecological and economic threats of the new millennium, and freshwater systems are particularly vulnerable. This book examines the identity, distribution, and impact of freshwater non-indigenous species and the dynamics of their invasion. It focuses on old and new invaders and provides a starting point for further research.