Pacifastacus gambelli
Pacifastacus gambelli is a of crayfish in the Astacidae. The Pacifastacus is native to western North America, with species distributed across freshwater in the Pacific Northwest and Rocky Mountain regions. P. gambelli is closely related to other Pacifastacus species including the widely studied signal crayfish (P. leniusculus), which has become a notorious in Europe. The species epithet 'gambelli' honors William Gambel, an American naturalist and explorer of the western United States in the 19th century.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Pacifastacus gambelli: /ˌpæsəˈfæstəkəs ˈɡæmbɛli/
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Distribution
Native to western North America, with historical records from freshwater systems in the region. The Pacifastacus has its center of diversity in the Pacific Northwest and western mountain ranges of the United States.
Human Relevance
The Pacifastacus includes of significant economic and ecological importance. Pacifastacus leniusculus (signal crayfish) has been widely introduced outside its native range and is now considered one of the most problematic crayfish species globally, particularly in Europe where it threatens native crayfish through competition and as a of crayfish (Aphanomyces astaci). While P. gambelli itself has not been documented as an , its P. leniusculus serves as a cautionary example of the invasion potential within this genus.
Similar Taxa
- Pacifastacus leniusculusSignal crayfish is the most well-known , distinguished by its successful spread and larger maximum size. P. gambelli can be differentiated by morphological features and more restricted native range.
- Pacifastacus fortisAnother western North American in the same , with overlapping distribution in some regions. Species-level identification requires examination of and other detailed anatomical features.
- Austropotamobius pallipesEuropean native crayfish that has been impacted by Pacifastacus ; not a direct look-alike but relevant for understanding conservation context of Pacifastacus invasions.