Redclaw (Cherax quadricarinatus) is
native to tropical Queensland and the Northern Territory, it is also found in
Papua New Guinea. The males have distinctive red patches on the outside of their
large front claws, while the females lack these patches and tend to have smaller
claws. Unlike Yabbies, they do not burrow but do like to live inside some type
of ‘tunnel’ such as a hollow log.Redclaw have the potential to impact aquatic ecosystems through modification of natural habitats, direct predation, competition with native species and the introduction of crayfish diseases. Like many freshwater pest fish, once populations of redclaw have become established, eradication is almost impossible. As with all non-natives, this fact highlights the importance of preventing non-native species like redclaw from entering or spreading further in our waterways!
How to tell the difference between a Yabby and a
Redclaw Crayfish:
Cherax destructor, or the common native
Yabby, have two raised longitudinal
ridges on top of their heads. In contrast, Cherax
quadricarinatus, or Redclaw crayfish, have four
raised longitudinal ridges on top of their heads.
Bait for Redclaw Crayfish:
Common redclaw baits include fish frames, chicken frames,
half-cooked potatoes, rockmelon, dog and cat biscuits,
pilchards and cheese. Redclaw are supposedly vegetarians, so
the variety is endless.
Your local tackle shop sells yabby traps that are suitable for Redclaw Crayfish
Video showing how to catch Redclaw Crayfish:
Please read your local Fisheries regulations about catching
crayfish, here in Queensland you are allowed 4 traps/pots
with no size and bag limits on the redclaw themselves. The
feed shown here fed 3 people twice.
