Research progress in physiological ecology and environmental toxicology of two cultured freshwater crayfish (Procambarus clarkii and Cherax quadricarinatus) was reviewed. The suitable range of environmental conditions (salinity, temperature and pH) and the medial lethal concentrations (LC₅₀) and safety concentrations of toxic contaminants (ammonia, nitrite, heavy metals and pesticides) for freshwater crayfish, and the effects of environmental stress and contaminant exposure on growth, organization structure, physiological metabolism and immunity were summarized. It provides reference for water environment monitoring and regulation of culture of freshwater crayfish.