Crayfish Ecomorphology

What is ecomorphology?

Ecomorphology (aka. ecological morphology) is the study of the relationship between an organism's ecological role and its morphological adaptations. 

GOAL: To assess the accuracy of Hobbs' burrowing types using morphometrics.

Background:

Crayfish inhabit a wide range of habitats, from fast-flowing streams to stagnant ponds, their bodies are adapted to fit their specific ecological niches. Some species, such as many members of the genus Faxonius, have long, slender claws. Other species, like members of the genus Distocambarus, have short, powerful claws for burrowing into the mud.

In 1981, Horton Hobbs Jr. presented a classification system for crayfish. These classifications are based on the habitat utilized and the burrowing behaviors exhibited. However, these burrowing classes can be problematic as a species may not fit perfectly within one of these definitions. I hope to test the accuracy of Hobbs' burrowing types based on morphology. The ecomorphology of crayfish can provide scientists insight into the evolution of these fascinating critters. 

Progress:

This idea began as my undergraduate capstone project and was supposed to be the topic of my Master's thesis. This project is based on geometric morphometrics (GMM) - I photograph museum specimens and conduct GMM analyses on the photos. Unfortunately due to the travel restrictions caused by COVID-19 the project got put on hold. Fortunately, my current advisor, Dr. Matt Kolmann, allowed me to continue this research at UofL as part of my dissertation work.

Funding:

Kenneth Jay Boss Fellowship in Invertebrate Zoology (Smithsonian Institution, NMNH) - 2022

NASA WVSGC Graduate Fellowship - 2020

Hobbs Burrowing Types 

from The Crayfishes of Georgia (1981)