Self cloning: A concept often used in science fiction. In fact self-cloning or the process of parthenogenesis occurs in some creatures known around the world. The term parthenogenesis refers to the process of asexual reproduction where the embryo requires no fertilization. Creatures which possess such ability range from the Whiptal lizard(Cnemidophorus neomexicanus) to Belts-ville Small White(BSW) Turkeys! Offspring from parthenogenesis acquire all of her mothers genetic material.
With that we introduce our friend; The Marbled Crayfish aka. Marmorkrebs. They are the only decapod crustaceans known to man which produces via parthenogenesis. Little is known of its origin when it was uncovered in a fish store in Germany during the 1990s. All Marmorkrebs are female and will require no mating to breed. They grow from birth to adulthood(full size) within 5-6months. It can reach lengths of 4-5.” They are able to breed around the age of 4-5months. The more mature they are the more babies they are capable of carrying. On average they can carry 100-300 babies during each birth period. Once Marmorkrebs reach breeding age they will continuous breed(if environment permitting) about every 8 weeks. This rapid growth and reproduction rate promote Marmorkrebs as an excellent source of live feeders to carnivorous fish. Owners should caution that they are never released or exposed to the outdoors. Their habits make them potentially invasive to local water sources.
Marbled crayfish(Marmorkrebs) is truly one of the most uncommon creature that you can actually keep in your freshwater aquarium.