Marbled crayfish

Procambarus virginalis

Marbled Crayfish

  • No natural populations of the species are known.
  • Wild populations are caused by releases of crayfish formerly kept in aquaria.
  • They reach sexual maturity after 5-7 months. The incubation time for eggs is 20-45 days.
  • Its reproductive cycle is faster compared to other crayfish species.
  • It is the only crayfish solely reproducing through parthenogenesis.
  • The eggs of females can develop into offspring without fertilisation by sperm.
  • Offspring are genetically identical to the parent.
  • It is related to the slough crayfish, Procambarus fallax, which is native in the USA.
  • It is an invasive species in Europe, Asia, and Africa.
  • It was a popular pet species, but its trade is now illegal in the EU.
Contact person

Fengzhi He

Guest Scientist
Research group
Aquatic Ecogeography

Sonja Jähnig

Head of Department
Research group
Aquatic Ecogeography