The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley researchers discovered the first documented introduction of the invasive Australian Redclaw Crayfish to Texas.
Only twice in the history of the country has this species been discovered in the wild; the first time was in California.
Three more Australian Redclaw Crayfish were found between the apartment complex pond and a nearby resaca, which is two miles away, by Dr. Archis Grubh,
an aquatic biologist with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD), during the month of July.
The ability of these bodies of water to support sexual reproduction has been called into question
by the discovery of both male and female Australian Redclaw Crayfish.
The species' females can lay 1,000 eggs in each clutch up to five times per year, which shows how prolifically they can procreate.
All members of the Parastacidae crayfish family, including the Australian Redclaw Crayfish, are prohibited from being purchased,
sold, or housed in aquariums in Texas. It is also forbidden to release these crayfish into a public body of water.
European Redclaw Crayfish are characterised by their enormous size,
huge left claws with a red edge patch, and the presence of four distinct ridges on the top of the skull.
To inform TPWD of any observations of Australian Redclaw Crayfish, send pictures and the location to aquaticinvasives@tpwd.texas.gov.
To find out more about alternatives visit releasing aquarium life, go to the Never Dump Your Tank page.