Among the numerous Cherax species Cherax quadricarinatus, also known as Australian red claw crayfish, occupies a special position. It has been propagated as edible crayfish in aquaculture for decades and was therefore one of the very first Cherax species available for aquaristics.
Cherax quadricarinatus belongs to the largest representatives of its genus, males can reach up to 30 cm in length. Females always remain somewhat smaller. The sexes can be distinguished, as in all Cherax species, by the sexual openings (gonopores) on the walking legs. In females the gonopores are located on the 3rd, in males on the 5th pair of walking legs. This is the best form of sex determination, especially in young animals. In adults it is easier because only males develop the red blisters on the outside of the scissor finger. The length of the head carapace (cephalothorax) indicates when C. quadricarinatus becomes sexually mature: males at 17 mm and females at 24.5 mm. This corresponds to a total length of approx. 4.5 – 6 cm.
Even though Cherax quadricarinatus is one of the largest species: it is also one of the most peaceful. Certainly the selection for keeping in aquaculture has also contributed to the fact that these crayfish – unlike many other crayfish species – are absolutely compatible even with each other and usually do not even damage each other when they are freshly skinned and still butter soft.
The 3-5 cm long juveniles, which are beautifully colored in light blue, are usually sold. As they get older, the animals become darker, we have also included pictures of adult animals in the post to show what they look like then. These animals have a length of 10-12 cm. Unfortunately, C. quadricarinatus is one of the species on the early warning list of invasive species that may be banned in Europe in the future, as released animals have been repeatedly observed in Spain. We therefore appeal once again to all pet owners: please never release any animals into the wild. Firstly, this is cruelty to animals and secondly, it is strictly forbidden. Anyone who does it anyway is acting asocially and irresponsibly endangering our hobby and passion.
For our customers: the animals have code 481401 (3-5 cm) and 481404 (10-12 cm) on our stocklist. Please note that we only supply wholesale.
Text & photos: Frank Schäfer
