An update of the known distribution and status of Cherax spp. in Italy (Crustacea, Parastacidae)

To date, only two Cherax species have been reported to occur in Italy, i.e., C. destructor Clark, 1936 and C. quadricarinatus (von Martens, 1868), both in the wild and in aquaculture farms. Therefore, we aimed to update their current status and distribution in Italian mainland and Sicily. In addition, we investigated the origin of their known populations, and their possible routes of invasion. In order to genetically characterize the Cherax populations occurring in Italian inland waters and aquaculture facilities, the barcode region of the mtDNA gene cytochrome oxidase subunit I was sequenced in the available specimens originating from an aquaculture facility and a museum collection. The sa…