Common yabby
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| Cherax destructor Clark, 1936 |
The common yabby, Cherax destructor, is an endangered species [1] of crayfish [2]. Its common name of "yabby" is shared with many other Australian species of crustacean. Yabbies reach up to 30 cm (12 in) long [3], and are typically dark brown, green-brown, or blue-black [4].
[edit] Ecology
The common yabby is found in low-lying swamps, streams, rivers and dams, and is common throughout Victoria and New South Wales, although it may also be found in southern Queensland, South Australia, and parts of the Northern Territory, making it the most widespread Australian crayfish [5]. It has been introduced to Western Australia, where it is an invasive species and poses a threat to the native crayfish [6]. They are nocturnal omnivores, feeding primarily on plant debris.
[edit] Aquaculture
The common yabby is a popular species for aquaculture [5], although their burrowing can destroy dams.
[edit] References
- ^ Crandall (1996). Cherax destructor. 2006 IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. IUCN 2006. Retrieved on 11 May 2006. Listed as Vulnerable (VU A1de v2.3)
- ^ Yabby. Native Fish Australia (2006-09-20).
- ^ Craig Williams. Cherax destructor.
- ^ Chris Goerner. Cherax destructor.
- ^ a b Fiona Withnall (2000). Biology of Yabbies (Cherax destructor) (PDF).
- ^ Beatty, S., D. Morgan & H. Gill (2005). Role of Life History Strategy in the Colonisation of Western Australian Aquatic Systems by the Introduced Crayfish Cherax destructor Clark, 1936. Hydrobiologia 549 (1): 219–237. DOI:10.1007/s10750-005-5443-0.
