Freshwater ecosystems are under severe pressure, and crayfish, a keystone species in many of these ecosystems, are highly endangered. This study synthesizes taxonomic and phylogenetic information to estimate a comprehensive phylogeny for freshwater crayfish, mapping IUCN endangered species status and testing for associations with phylogenetic clades and taxonomic groups. Diversification and extinction rates are estimated, and an EDGE (Evolutionarily Distinct and Globally Endangered) analysis is conducted to identify species of special conservation concern.

Christopher L. Owen, Heather Bracken-Grissom, David Stern, Keith A. Crandall