Freshwater crustaceans
Other Publication ResearchOnline@JCUAbstract
Freshwater aquaculture is basically concerned with fish species; crustaceans play only a minor role. Total production of freshwater crustaceans is very low compared with fish, and many fewer species are involved. Nevertheless, the species' biology and methods of production have unique characteristics that make them a particularly interesting group. Although national production of mitten crabs (Eriochier sinensis) is a substantial aquaculture industry in China (177,955 mt in 1999) (FAO, 2001 b), international aquaculture of freshwater crustaceans comprises almost entirely prawns and crayfish (some species of which are known as crawfish in southern USA). This chapter will consider prawns and crayfish. These freshwater crustaceans generally have a broader diet and simpler life cycle than brackish-water and marine shrimp and, consequently, may be reared with cheaper feeds, and culture methods that are less technically demanding. Freshwater prawns have free-living larval stages, which often require brackish-water, necessitating specialised hatchery facilities. Freshwater crayfish, however, have no free-living larval stages, and complete their entire life cycle in freshwater. Their aquaculture is relatively simple. Unfortunately, technical simplicity often leads to negligent practice and the benefits of simple biology of the species involved are lost due to a lack of commitment to basic aquaculture principles. This is not an issue if extensive aquaculture practices are used, but the future for freshwater crustacean aquaculture is in intensified culture techniques, and the potential for significant growth in production will be realised only through application of professional and industrial practices like those used for marine crustaceans. The two groups are dealt with separately below. Freshwater crayfish and prawns differ in morphology and life history, but they also have much in common. Consequently, the future development of culture techniques will no doubt involve some cross-fertilisation of ideas between the two groups.
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Aquaculture: Farming Aquatic Animals and Plants
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978-0-85238-222-6
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502
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Blackwell Publishing
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Oxford, UK
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