Abstract

The red swamp crayfish, Procambarus clarkii, is a resource used by several predators in Portugal. This study aimed to provide information on the potential seasonal availability of P. clarkii to its consumers. To accomplish this goal, crayfish seasonal relative abundance, population structure and biomass were estimated in four different areas representing specific freshwater habitats: an irrigation channel and a paddy of two rice fields, a marsh and a reservoir. Rice field drainage systems and marshes are the most suitable areas for crayfish populations presenting high relative abundance. Crayfish populations were composed mainly of larger individuals (carapace length > 22.5 mm) in spring, summer and autumn. Smaller animals (carapace length ? 22.5 mm) represented the bulk of populations in winter, although they were present all year in both rice field habitats and from autumn to spring in the marsh and the reservoir habitats. Higher biomasses were registered in the rice field irrigation channel and the marsh. The lowest crayfish biomass at all areas was obtained in winter. Results from this study indicate that larger individuals are more available from spring to autumn and juveniles in winter.

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