North American crayfish, also known as crawfish or crawdad, are freshwater crustaceans belonging to the family Cambaridae. They are commonly found in rivers, lakes, and ponds across the United States and Canada. These creatures have a hard exoskeleton, two large pincers, and a segmented body, which helps them thrive in various aquatic environments. There are over 300 species of North American crayfish, each adapted to specific habitats. They play a crucial role in the ecosystem by serving as both predators and prey, contributing to the food web. Crayfish are also important for maintaining water quality by scavenging on organic matter.