Crustaceans - Introduction

The three species of freshwater crayfish farmed in Australia are the yabby, the redclaw and the marron.

Generally the yabby is smaller and not as high yielding as the redclaw, while the marron is larger but slower growing.

The Yabby, found naturally throughout much of New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia and Queensland, has also been translocated to Western Australia. The marron is native to southwest Western Australia, while the redclaw is native to northern Queensland and Northern Territory streams. All species are grown in earthen ponds. While a large proportion of yabbies are produced in pre-existing farm dams, production of redclaw and marron takes place almost exclusively in purpose built ponds.

The Australian freshwater crayfish farming industry has successfully passed through its initial experimental and developmental stage. With the recent development of proven production guidelines, stronger and more unified grower associations, and cooperative marketing ventures, production is expected to continue to grow in the future.

Farmed freshwater crayfish are sold both domestically, and exported, predominantly to Western Europe, east Asia and north America. In 2001-02, Australian production of farmed freshwater crayfish fell to 297 tonnes as drought cut the supply of water to farm dams and ponds in the main Yabby and Marron producing areas. Freshwater crayfish production was valued at $4.4 million (farm gate basis) in 2001-02, comprised of yabbies, $2.0 million, redclaw, $1.0 million, and marron, $1.4 million.

( REF. Australian Aquaculture. Industry profiles for selected species)

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