Biology of Freshwater Crayfish

Crayfish are the largest, mobile freshwater invertebrates with some 540 recognised species. They are of long standing interest to anatomists and physiologists. For their great commercial importance as a human food delicacy, crayfish are now becoming of wider interest to molecular biologists, and also to conservationists due to the fact that in some countries many of the native crayfish species are under threat from human activity, disease, and competition from other introduced crayfish species.This fully comprehensive book covers all major aspects of these important animals, including taxonomy, anatomy, evolution, growth and reproduction, behaviour, ecology, physiology, conservation, genetics, immunology, environmental aspects, and diseases. There are separate chapters on each genus of crayfish of commercial importance.Written by 22 well-known experts, Biology of Freshwater Crayfish has been carefully edited by David Holdich, internationally recognised for his work with these animals. The book is an essential purchase for anyone involved with the biology or exploitation of crayfish, including freshwater and invertebrate biologists and personnel involved in fisheries and aquaculture. Libraries in all universities and research establishments where biological sciences, fisheries or aquaculture are studied or taught should have copies of this important book on their shelves.Also available from Blackwell PublishingFreshwater Prawn CultureEdited by M. New & W. C. Valenti0 632 05602 9KrillEdited by I. Everson0 632 05565 0Spiny LobstersFisheries and CultureEdited by B. Phillips0 85238 264 2Crustacean FarmingSecond editionJ. Wickins & D. O'C Lee0 632 05464 6Freshwater Biology (Journal)Published monthlyISSN: 0046 5070To view our full range of fish related titles, visit our exciting websitewww.fishknowledge.com Editor is world leader in crayfish biology.Essential reading for anyone involved in crayfish biology or exploitation.Chapters by world's leading experts in crayfish.Covers commercially important species in depth.