Study

Managing invasive crayfish: use of X-ray sterilisation of males

  • Published source details Aquiloni L, Becciolini A, Berti R, Porciani S, Trunfio C & Gherardi F (2009) Managing invasive crayfish: use of X-ray sterilisation of males. Freshwater Biology, 54, 1510-1519.

Actions

This study is summarised as evidence for the following.

Action Category

Procambarus crayfish control: Sterilization of males

Action Link
Control of Freshwater Invasive Species
  1. Procambarus crayfish control: Sterilization of males

    A replicated laboratory study conducted between 2005 and 2006 in Italy (Aquiloni et al. 2009) found that male red swamp crayfish Procambarus clarkii, exposed to X-rays had a reduced reproductive ability. The number of offspring they successfully produced was reduced by 43% compared to a control group (no x-ray exposure). X-ray exposure did not affect the males’ survival and mating abilities. Irradiated males had smaller testes and altered sperm production that lasted for at least a year. A total of 122 males were tested, half in a control group with no irradiation. Male crayfish were placed individually inside a plastic tube and exposed to a 6 MeV electron beam for five minutes. Testes and sperm production were measured, as were the number of viable offspring produced post-mating.

     

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