Ecological Risk Screening Summary - Northern Clearwater Crayfish (Orconectes propinquus) - High Risk

Species that are considered high risk have a well-documented history of invasiveness in at least one location globally and are of establishment concern for the contiguous United States based on a climate matching analysis.

The Northern Clearwater Crayfish, Faxonius propinquus, is a crayfish native to the Great Lakes and adjacent drainages in the United States and Canada. It is found in streams and lakes with cool water and is sometimes used as bait. The History of Invasiveness for F. propinquus is classified as High. It has been reported as established outside of its native range in Colorado, New York, Michigan, and Wisconsin in the United States and in northwestern Ontario, Canada.

Most recently, F. propinquus has become established in the Delaware River watershed along the border of Pennsylvania and New York. Impacts from introduction include changes in benthic communities and replacement of native crayfish species. This species has likely been introduced 
through the use of bait by anglers. However, no information regarding this species in trade was found. It is regulated as part of the Family Cambaridae in eight States. The climate matching analysis for the contiguous United States indicates establishment concern for this species outside its native range. Areas of high climate match found outside its native range were located throughout the Northern Plains and Northeast regions and into the Southeast region. The Certainty of Assessment is High. The Overall Risk Assessment Category for Faxonius propinquus is High.