Aquaculture of redclaw crayfish Cherax
quadricarinatus is a relatively new industry
to northeastern Australia and is poised
for substantial expansion. Redclaw production
in the State of Queensland has risen
from 32 tons in 1993-1994 to 77 tons
in 1998-1999. Average yield from those
farms that produce in excess of 1,000 kg/
yr was 1,796 kgha (Lobegeiger 2000).
The approach taken by farmers varies considerably,
ranging from simple harvesting
of unmanaged farm dam populations of
crayfish to semi-intensively managed
aquaculture ponds. Well managed redclaw
farms are now achieving yields in excess
of 4,000 kgha per yr (Lobegeiger 2000)
and are characterized by consistencies in
the approach taken and the pond environment
provided.