Spiny-Cheek Crayfish

Spiny-cheek crayfish can be found in ponds, lakes and rivers and tend to prefer calm, turbid waters. They are resistant to water pollution, dry conditions and low temperatures, showing a broad physical tolerance. Females can lay up to 370 eggs in the spring, and can reproduce both sexually and asexually. They are known vectors of crayfish plague and have contributed to the spread of this between native European crayfish populations. They are named due to their distinctive spine cheeks, but have been confused with signal crayfish in the past.

• Vital that biosecurity is taken into account in survey design as there is the potential that individuals may be infected with crayfish plague. Thoroughly disinfect all footwear/waders and equipment before entering the sampling site or moving between sites.