Crayfish, also known as crawfish, crawdads, freshwater lobsters, mountain lobsters, mudbugs or yabbies, are freshwater crustaceans resembling small lobsters, to which they are related.

They breathe through feather-like gills. Some species are found in brooks and streams where there is running fresh water, while others thrive in swamps, ditches, and paddy fields. 

Crayfish feed on living animals and plants. There are about 150 crayfish species in North America, and over 540 species worldwide.

We also offer preserved crayfish to be used for dissecting for the study of exoskeletons and internal anatomy.

Crayfish Facts:

• Their bodies are made up of twenty body segments grouped into two main body parts, the cephalothorax and the abdomen.

• On average, crayfish grow to 6.9 inches in length.

• Fossilized burrows of crayfish have been found as old as the late Paleozoic or early Mesozoic period.

These little crawlies are available to order through the Living Science Material Center CO-OP page to help enhance teaching activities or as classroom pets.