Agonistic behavior of an invasive crayfish (Orconectes palmeri) toward the Muckalee crayfish (Procambarus gibbus): effects of residence, size, and cover

Abstract

Invasive Creole Painted Crayfish (Orconectes palmeri) have spread throughout the Flint River and are currently moving from there into a tributary, Muckalee Creek. The negative behavioral impact of the invasive is a concern for the endemic Muckalee Crayfish (Procambarus gibbus). Tests examining residence, size, and cover effects on aggression demonstrated that O. palmeri is a dominant species in these encounters. This may explain the success of O. palmeri in the Flint River with Procambarus spiculifer, which is a close relative of P. gibbus, and it may also mean the endemic P. gibbus is in danger of extirpation. A survey of the Muckalee showed O. palmeri has already entered the tributary and are likely spreading upstream.

Keywords:

• Invasive species
• crayfish
• behavior
• aggression
• Muckalee

Acknowledgments

Support and animal housing for these studies was provided by Georgia Southwestern State University (GSW). Student advising was provided by Dr Ian Brown and the equipment was in part provided by the biology department of GSW and by the Cofer Fund at GSW.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Notes on contributors

O. Thomas Lorenz Tom Lorenz is an associate professor of biology at Georgia Southwestern State University, where he conducts research on invasive species and behavior in crayfishes, reptiles, and fishes.

Elizabeth Craddock graduated from Georgia Southwestern State University and continued to do crayfish research at Georgia Southern University.

Cameron Baxter graduated from Georgia Southwestern State University and is now a Naval Aviator.

Alejandra Palacio completed her B.Sc. from Georgia Southwestern State University and is now a Navy Officer.