Astacidae Collection

Astacus astacus Linnaeus, crayfish
Suppl. Tb LVI from Insecten-Belustigung 1756-61, Volume 3 by August Johann R� von Rosenhof (1705-1759)

A group of crayfish / freshwater lobsters at London Zoo in March 1925 (b / w photo)
3116197 A group of crayfish / freshwater lobsters at London Zoo in March 1925 (b/w photo) by Bond, Frederick William (1887-1942); Zoological Society of London; eZoological Society of London; British

European crayfish (Astacus astacus), underwater, August, Europe, controlled conditions

Atlantic Stream Crayfish (Austropotamobius pallipes) adult, on stony riverbed in river habitat, River Witham, Lincolnshire, England, September

Man searching for Atlantic Stream Crayfish (Austropotamobius pallipes) under licence, using viewing bucket, River Witham, Lincolnshire, England, September

Signal crayfish C016 / 5780
signal crayfish (Pacifastacus leniusculus). Specimen held at the Natural History Museum, London, UK

Signal crayfish C016 / 5779
signal crayfish (Pacifastacus leniusculus). Specimen held at the Natural History Museum, London, UK

Pacifastacus leniusculus, signal crayfish
Signal crayfish specimen held at the Natural History Museum, London

American River Crayfish (Orconectes limosus) introduced species, adult male, resting on rocks, Italy, april

Louisiana Crayfish (Procambarus clarkii) introduced species, claws, remains of European Otter (Lutra lutra) prey, Spain, june

White-clawed Freshwater Crayfish (Austropotamobius italicus) adult male, close-up of claw with Parasitic Annelid (Branchiobdella astaci) ectoparasites attached, Italy, july

Madagascan Forest Crayfish (Astacoides granulimanus) adult, in primary rainforest, Ranomafana N. P
Madagascan Forest Crayfish (Astacoides granulimanus) adult, in primary rainforest, Ranomafana N.P. Eastern Madagascar, august

American Signal Crayfish (Pacifastacus leniusculus) introduced species, adult, with claws raised in defensive posture, Italy, august

Atlantic Stream Crayfish (Austropotamobius pallipes) adult, close-up of head, underwater, Italy

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Astacidae, also known as crayfish or freshwater lobsters, are fascinating creatures that have captured the attention of researchers and animal enthusiasts alike. In March 1925, a group of these mesmerizing crustaceans were showcased at the London Zoo. The black and white photograph from that time transports us back to an era when people marveled at the wonders of nature. One particular species within this family is the European crayfish (Astacus astacus). Found underwater in controlled conditions across Europe, these majestic creatures create a captivating sight. Their vibrant colors add life to their surroundings as they gracefully navigate through their aquatic habitat. The Atlantic Stream Crayfish (Austropotamobius pallipes) holds its own allure. Held by Jake Reeds under license on River Witham, two adults showcase their unique features against a backdrop of flowing water. Another adult can be seen resting on a stony riverbed nearby - perfectly adapted to its natural environment. With licenses in hand, individuals venture out in search of these elusive creatures using viewing buckets for closer inspection, and is through such efforts that we gain valuable insights into their behavior and contribute to conservation efforts. However, not all crayfish species bring positive impacts. The Louisiana Crayfish (Procambarus clarkii), introduced as an invasive species, has made itself comfortable along canal banks like Regents Canal in London. Its presence serves as a reminder of how human actions can disrupt delicate ecosystems. On the other hand, witnessing an Atlantic Stream Crayfish emerge from beneath a rock in a flooded former granite quarry reminds us of nature's resilience and ability to adapt even amidst challenging circumstances. Lastly, Signal crayfish (Pacifastacus leniusculus) make appearances with their distinctive markings - C016/5780 and C016/5779 - leaving no doubt about their identity within this diverse family.