Decapod fauna of the Chernaya River basin (Crimea)

Abstract

The results of hydrobiological studies of the Chernaya River basin are presented. The checklist of decapod crustaceans comprises 15 species from 12 families, with the majority (approximately 87 %) recorded in the estuarine section. A brief characterization of each species is provided. The decapod fauna is predominantly marine in origin (13 species), which is typical for estuarine zones. The native fauna of the Chernaya River is represented by only one species – the narrow-clawed crayfish Pontastacus leptodactylus. The current structure of the river system’s decapod fauna is shaped by the diversity and dynamics of environmental factors and human activities. One driver of increased species diversity is the introduction of non-native species. Four alien species were reliably documented, including two first records for the Chernaya River basin: the oriental shrimp Palaemon macrodactylus and marbled crayfish Procambarus fallax. The biological traits of these species suggest a high likelihood of successful naturalization in the region.