Written by world experts in astacology, this book covers a range of aspects of the biology and ecology of freshwater crayfish. With a strong focus on wild crayfish, the book studies the taxonomy and genetics of this interesting group of animals. Under examination also are crayfish growth and reproduction, with detailed illustrations; behavior and c

"In writing this book about Crayfishes it has not been my intention to compose a zoological monograph on that group of animals ... I have desired, in fact, to show how the careful study of one of the commonest and most insignificant of animals, leads us, step by step, from every-day knowledge to the widest generalizations and most difficult problems of zoology; and indeed, of biological science in general."--The Preface

Includes bibliographical references and index.