FRESHWATER CRAYFISH | 2008| vol. 16| Research Article
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Full Citation: Hamr P (2008). The life history of the crayfish Astacopsis franklinii (Parastacidae) in streams on Mount Wellington, Tasmania. Freshwater Crayfish 16: 155-164.

Hamr P

Abstract:
The life history of the Tasmanian freshwater crayfish Astacopsis franklinii was studied in the field and laboratory. Data on seasonal reproduction, growth, population structure and density were obtained from regular sampling in two small streams draining Mt. Wellington in Southern Tasmania. The general patterns of the seasonality of mating and growth are similar to those of the closely related A. gouldi. Secondary sexual characters in mature females perform important functions in spawning and incubation of eggs. Upon reaching maturity, females exhibit a biennial breeding and moulting cycle which is a strategy apparently resulting from the overall cool climate conditions in Tasmania. Mating and spawning takes place in autumn, eggs are carried over winter, hatch mid to late the following summer, with young remaining attached until late summer to early autumn. Growth rates are relatively slow and moulting frequency in adults is low. The importance of monitoring this species in areas of intensive forestry operations are discussed and related to the management of Tasmanian Astacopsis species in general.

Keywords: Astacopsis franklinii; biennial reproduction; life history; management

Article Language: English

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