Ecological Risk Screening Summary - European Crayfish (Astacus astacus) - Uncertain Risk

Species that are considered uncertain risk need a more in-depth assessment beyond the Ecological Risk Screening Summary to better define the species’ risk to U.S. environments.

Astacus astacus, European Crayfish, is a crustacean that is native to much of Europe. This species is found in freshwater environments and temperate climates. Astacus astacus is a popular food source in its native range. Astacus astacus has been introduced outside of its native range to other parts of Europe, Morocco, and Russia, likely for research and aquaculture purposes. The History of Invasiveness for Astacus astacus is classified as Data Deficient due to a lack of information about impacts from the introduced populations. The climate matching analysis for the contiguous United States indicates establishment concern for this species. High climate matches were found primarily in the Appalachian Range, Great Lakes, and Mid-Atlantic, with pockets of high match scattered throughout the West. The Certainty of Assessment for this ERSS is classified as Low due to the lack of data available on the impacts of introductions. The Overall Risk Assessment Category for Astacus astacus in the contiguous United States is Uncertain.