Landscape Genetics of the Troglophilic Crayfish Cambarus tenebrosus

Authors

James Bradley Finlay, Brigham Young University
Dr. Keith A. Crandall, Brigham Young University

Keywords

landscape genetics, Troglophilic crayfish, Cambarus tenebrosus

College

Life Sciences

Department

Biology

Abstract

There has always been a fascination with the great diversity of species that exist on the earth. For my project I chose to investigate this diversity phenomenon by examining the intraspecific relationships between populations of the freshwater crayfish currently considered Cambarus tenebrosus (Hay, 1902) taxonomically (by morphology). This crayfish species is found continuously throughout the central lowlands of the United States (Taylor 1997). C. tenebrosus is unique among other crayfish due to its ability to thrive in a cave environment as well as surface streams and springs. By studying these organisms one can more fully understand the effects that human activity has on two completely different habitats, especially since crayfish are excellent bio-indicators of water quality (Hobbs & Hall, 1974).

Recommended Citation

Finlay, James Bradley and Crandall, Dr. Keith A. (2013) "Landscape Genetics of the Troglophilic Crayfish Cambarus tenebrosus," Journal of Undergraduate Research: Vol. 2013: Iss. 1, Article 1022.
Available at: https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/jur/vol2013/iss1/1022