Abstract

Observations on a regional suite of species in the spiny crayfish genus Euastacus prompted a review of the taxonomic literature for selected aspects of morphology, distribution, and habitat. The findings suggest that three distinct groups can be identified using the criteria employed: i) small and poorly spinose Euastacus; ii) medium-large and spinose Euastacus; and iii) medium-large and spinose Euastacus that lack a cuticle partition. Comparisons are made with independent genetic findings, indicating that the third group may have an evolutionary basis. Uncertainties regarding the morphological character separating groups 2 and 3 are discussed. Habitat differentiation is proposed as a possible ecological mechanism for the observed differences between group 1 species and the rest of the genus.

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