Disclaimer:

The Nonindigenous Occurrences section of the NAS species profiles has a new structure. The section is now dynamically updated from the NAS database to ensure that it contains the most current and accurate information. Occurrences are summarized in Table 1, alphabetically by state, with years of earliest and most recent observations, and the tally and names of drainages where the species was observed. The table contains hyperlinks to collections tables of specimens based on the states, years, and drainages selected. References to specimens that were not obtained through sighting reports and personal communications are found through the hyperlink in the Table 1 caption or through the individual specimens linked in the collections tables.




Procambarus hayi
Procambarus hayi
(straightedge crayfish)
Crustaceans-Crayfish
Native Transplant

Copyright Info
Procambarus hayi (Faxon, 1884)

Common name: straightedge crayfish

Taxonomy: available through www.itis.govITIS logo

Native Range: Native to western drainages of the Tombigbee River from the Noxubee River in Mississippi and northward in the State into drainages of the Yalobusha, Skuna, Yocona, Tallahatchie, and Coldwater rivers (Payne, 1972).

Hydrologic Unit Codes (HUCs) Explained
Interactive maps: Point Distribution Maps

Nonindigenous Occurrences:

Table 1. States with nonindigenous occurrences, the earliest and latest observations in each state, and the tally and names of HUCs with observations†. Names and dates are hyperlinked to their relevant specimen records. The list of references for all nonindigenous occurrences of Procambarus hayi are found here.

StateFirst ObservedLast ObservedTotal HUCs with observations†HUCs with observations†
GA200920101Upper Oconee
MS201520152Yalobusha; Yocona

Table last updated 12/3/2024

† Populations may not be currently present.


Ecology: The Straightedge Crayfish is found in freshwater, semi-permanent to permanent streams; tolerant to sluggish flow (Payne, 1972).

The breeding season occurs from March through September when females lay eggs in burrows from August to November. Egg hatching occurs from 18 to 31 days after they are laid. Up to and including the fourth instar may remain attached to the female; third and fourth instars are the first juveniles to enter open water. Juveniles are considered adults after 6-8 months, reaching carapace length range of 36.0-45.5 mm; adult carapace length reached 55.0 mm after 1 year. The adults remain in deeper water during the day, moving into shallow waters at night (Payne, 1972).

Means of Introduction: Unknown, but most likely a bait bucket release.

Status: Unknown in its invaded range.

Impact of Introduction: Unknown, but could have the potential to threaten native species of crayfish.

References: (click for full references)

Payne, J.F. 1972. The life history of Procambarus hayi. American Midland Naturalist 87(1):25—35.

Skelton, C.E. 2010. History, status, and conservation of Georgia crayfishes. Southeastern Naturalist 9(3):127—138.

Author: Benson, A.J.

Revision Date: 5/13/2019

Citation Information:
Benson, A.J., 2024, Procambarus hayi (Faxon, 1884): U.S. Geological Survey, Nonindigenous Aquatic Species Database, Gainesville, FL, https://nas.er.usgs.gov/queries/FactSheet.aspx?speciesID=2882, Revision Date: 5/13/2019, Access Date: 12/4/2024

This information is preliminary or provisional and is subject to revision. It is being provided to meet the need for timely best science. The information has not received final approval by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and is provided on the condition that neither the USGS nor the U.S. Government shall be held liable for any damages resulting from the authorized or unauthorized use of the information.

Disclaimer:

The data represented on this site vary in accuracy, scale, completeness, extent of coverage and origin. It is the user's responsibility to use these data consistent with their intended purpose and within stated limitations. We highly recommend reviewing metadata files prior to interpreting these data.

Citation information: U.S. Geological Survey. [2024]. Nonindigenous Aquatic Species Database. Gainesville, Florida. Accessed [12/4/2024].

Contact us if you are using data from this site for a publication to make sure the data are being used appropriately and for potential co-authorship if warranted.

For general information and questions about the database, contact Wesley Daniel. For problems and technical issues, contact Matthew Neilson.