They thrive in the bayous and marshlands in South Louisiana.They are also grown in commercial ponds which started in the 1960's,Louisiana leads the nation in this type of aquaculture.

There are two species harvested in Louisiana the red swamp and the white river.Harvesting takes place from November through June, with baited wire-mesh traps or nets baited with melt.

They shed their exoskeletons in proportion to their rate of growth, as often as three or four times a year. The average life expectancy for a "Mudbug" is about three years, but the bigger ones may live to be seven or eight.

Mudbugs can be caught in ponds,marshlands and even along highways.At certain times of year they can be seen crossing highways.

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