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Geochemical and subsurface characteristics that determine the locations of crayfish on Sapelo Island

HSB 3rd Floor Student Commons

Crayfish are commonly found in freshwater systems, and few species have been reported in saline environments. This study investigates geochemical and hydrogeological parameters that control the distribution of crayfish on Sapelo Island. Geochemical (temperature, DO, conductivity, pH and ORP) data were collected from various sites, along with groundwater and other hydrogeological parameters. Water chemistry samples were also analyzed for nitrates, chlorine, iron. Most of the sites at Sapelo Island consist of brackish water. Burrowing Crayfish were found at two sites and burrow evidence was observed at a third site. Surface water crayfish were found in at least three roadside creeks/ditches. All of the burrowing crayfish were found in brackish water, and multiple species were identified. Results also indicate little difference in hydrogeologic, geochemical and soil characteristics of sites inhabited by burrowing crayfish and those without the crayfish. Additional research is being conducted to understand the spatial distribution of burrowing crayfish.