Project T-124-R1

Project Title: A Resurvey of Illinois Crayfish: Distribution, Conservation Assessments, and Habitat Needs

Community and/or Species Focus: Crayfish

Goals/Objectives:

1. Sample approximately 300 locations across Illinois using techniques that effectively capture both burrowing and non-burrowing crayfishes

2. Record both local and landscape scale habitat variables at select sampling locations for Illinois species of special concern

3. Conduct target surveys at historical and potentially new locations for species believed to be rare or extirpated

Achievements:

1. ​Current assessments of distribution, local abundance, conservation status, and habitat associations for all Illinois SGCN crayfish species

2. The first comprehensive study of the distribution and habitat for Illinois' five burrowing crayfish species

3. Estimates of habitat requirements for some Illinois's crayfish fauna

4. Assessment of possible occurrence of species of greatest concern for protection or restoration

5. Species Guidance Documents for Illinois' four endangered crayfish species

Post-Project Survey (if applicable): n/a

Project Period: 1/1/20 - 12/31/22

Principle Investigator(s): Dr. Christopher A. Taylor (Illinois Natural History Survey)

Final Report: Project is currently underway; "Achievements" are projections of what is to be accomplished.