Health & Environmental Research Online (HERO)


Print Feedback Export to File
6966118 
Journal Article 
A Giant's tale: the life history of Astacopsis gouldi (Decapoda : Parastacidae) a freshwater crayfish from Tasmania 
Hamr, P; , 
1997 
INTERNATIONAL ASSOC ASTACOLOGY 
LAFAYETTE 
13-33 
WOS:000090095400002 
The life history of the Giant Tasmanian freshwater crayfish (Astacopsis gouldi) was studied in the field and laboratory. A. gouldi is an endemic species associated with riverine and lacustrine habitats from highlands to coastal plains. The habitats of this species are typified by low water temperatures, high rainfall and fluctuating water levels. Data on seasonal reproduction, growth, population structure and density were obtained from regular sampling and mark-recapture programs. Size at maturity and reproductive condition were determined by changes in reproductive morphology and gonad condition.Female genitalia undergo significant changes in morphology at the onset of sexual maturity. Secondary sexual characters are more numerous in females and perform important functions in spawning and incubation of eggs. Males reach sexual maturity at a smaller size than females. Females, upon reaching maturity, appear to exhibit a biennial breeding and molting cycle which is a strategy documented in other Tasmanian crayfishes and, apparently the result of the overall cool climate conditions in Tasmania. Mating and spawning takes place in autumn, eggs are carried over winter, hatch mid td late following summer with young remaining attached until late summer to early autumn. Growth rates are relatively slow and moulting frequency in adults of both sexes is low. As a result they mature late and at a relatively large size as well as have an overall longer life span compared to most other freshwater crayfishes. 
Momot, WT; 
0-9642382-3-3 
11th Symposium of the International-Association-of-Astacology 
THUNDER BAY, CANADA