Rusty Crayfish (Orconectes rusticus)
Where did they come from?
- They originated from waters in Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio.
- They have been transported to foreign waters recently due to anglers using them as bait.
Where can they be found in South Dakota?
- The Rusty Crayfish has not been reported in South Dakota, but it is a species to watch out for since it has infested
waters all around South Dakota including Wyoming, Minnesota, Iowa, and Nebraska
What do they look like?
- Rusty Crayfish are similar to native crayfish. They can be told apart by their large black tipped claws and the
rusty spots on the back of their torso. They can range anywhere from 2-8 inches long.
Why are Rusty Crayfish a problem?
- Rusty crayfish can force out or completely replace native crayfish.
- They can destroy plant bed abundance and diversity.
How are Rusty Crayfish spread?
- They are spread by anglers using them as bait.
- Since females carry fetalized eggs, it only takes one to cause a problem.
Check out
Aquatic Nuisance Species Prevention on ways to prevent
the spread of Aquatic Nuisance Species
Rusty Crayfish links
Link to Protect You
Waters info on Rusty Crayfish
USGS Fact sheet on Rusty Crayfish
Pictures of Rusty Crayfish
United States Rusty
Crayfish Distribution Map
Click here to
report Rusty Crayfish
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Related Links
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SD Infested Waters List
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