A successful crayfish invader is capable of facultative parthenogenesis: A novel reproductive mode in decapod crustaceans

Abstract

We provide experimental evidence that females of one cambarid species particularly widespread in Europe, the spiny-cheek crayfish Orconectes limosus, are capable of facultative parthenogenesis. Such reproductive mode has never before been recognized in decapods, the most diverse crustacean order.

Keywords

• Parthenogenesis
• crustacean
• reproduction
• biological invasion
• impact