Behavioral Changes in Procambarus clarkii in Response to Hypoxic States from Algal Blooms

Katherine Blank, Meklit Bogale, Katarina Fernandez, Camryn Tucker, and Kaela S. Singleton 

Agnes Scott College, Department of Biology, Neuroscience Program, Class of 2022-2023 

The purpose of this experiment is to show some of the adverse effects of human  intervention on aquatic environments through construction site runoff. Crayfish are directly affected  by damming, water development, and construction. Phosphorus is a common ingredient in  construction building materials; it is also a limiting nutrient for many plants, especially for those in  aquatic systems. An abundance of phosphorus leads to the excessive growth of algal blooms. The  excessive growth of algal blooms depletes oxygen concentration in water, causing “dead zones.”  Crayfish in these environments are directly affected by the phosphorus used in construction. The  phosphorus leads to hypoxic conditions in aquatic ecosystems, causing significant stressors on  crayfish. One of the stressors includes aggressive behavior, which ultimately leads to lethal effects.  It is hypothesized that the hypoxic conditions in aquatic ecosystems will lead to crayfish mortality.  This experiment will provide further insight into the impact of urbanization on aquatic animals,  specifically crayfish. The research from this experiment will showcase the importance of preventive  measures for aquatic environments across the United States.