crawfish
Crawfish, crayfish, or crawdads are small freshwater crustaceans in the order Decapoda that resemble tiny lobsters. They inhabit rivers, streams, ponds, and wetlands in many temperate regions. The terms vary by region; "crawfish" is common in the southern United States, while "crayfish" is more widely used elsewhere.
Taxonomy and diversity: Two superfamilies, Astacoidea (true crayfish) and Parastacoidea (Australian crayfish), contain hundreds of species.
Anatomy and biology: Crayfish have a hard exoskeleton, five pairs of walking legs, and two large claws.
Habitat and ecology: They are primarily benthic, living on or near the bottom of freshwater bodies. They
Life cycle: Reproduction is sexual. Females carry fertilized eggs under the abdomen until hatching; the young
Human use and conservation: Crawfish are a popular food in many cuisines, especially in the southern United