Devil Crayfish
The devil crayfish is a native crustacean.
About This Species
The devil crayfish is a small species, growing up to 4 ½ inches in length at maturity. The species has been known to display a wide range of colors, including brown, reddish brown, blue, and green. The first pleopods (swimmerets) of Form I males are shaped like monkey wrenches.
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Range
The devil crayfish is one of the most widespread crayfish species in North America; they have been found in every state east of the Rocky Mountains and south of New York and New Jersey.
Habitat
The devil crayfish dwells primarily in small streams. The species is native to the South Platte drainage in northeast Colorado. They are also found burrowing in forested areas with high water tables and fine sediment. The devil crayfish has a burrow that is distinguished by the cone-shaped "mud chimney" entryway. Local populations may show decline due to pollution related to agricultural and storm water runoff.
Reproduction
The females lay eggs in late spring, attaching them to their abdomen. This protects the eggs during the brooding process. The baby crayfish stay attached to the mother until the completion of their second molt. Adults live two to three years on average.