SIZE DEPENDENT FECUNDITY IN THE SIGNAL CRAYFISH AND ITS IMPORTANCE FOR A SUSTAINABLE FISHERY

Abstract

The signal crayfish (Pacifastacus leniusculus) is of great economic and social value in Sweden. Therefore it is of great importance that knowledge and experience is obtained and applied when creating a sustainable fishing industry. My study shows that the fecundity of the female crayfish is determined by her size, a larger female crayfish gives more offspring than a smaller one. In practice, most of the local fishing organisations have decided that fishing of crayfish is not allowed below the limit of 10 cm. But in order to manage a sustainable fishing these local regulations might have to be changed. Since larger female gives more offspring it might be better to let them go and instead catch the smaller ones.

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