Abstract

The deregulated or uncontrolled introduction of crayfish into a new area, primarily for aquaculture, may have deleterious effects on any fauna already inhabiting that same area. This discussion paper investigates the potential for Cherax destructor, introduced to the south west of Western Australia, to out-compete and displace not only indigenous crayfish, but also the critically endangered western swamp turtle, Pseudemydura umbrina. The translocation history and relevant comparative biology are presented in summary. It is suggested that the burrowing behaviour of yabbies may confer competitive advantage over native species in an area where there is decreasing annual rainfall and a receding water table.

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