Feeding specifics of the Australian red claw crayfish Cherax quadricarinatus (von Martens, 1868) in aquaculture

Background. The selection of optimal feed formulations is a primary factor determining the efficiency and sustainability of aquaculture. The Australian Red Claw Crayfish, Cherax quadricarinatus (von Martens, 1868), known for its high growth rates and tolerance to water quality parameters, is a popular aquaculture species worldwide. However, the development of specialized feeds for this species remains insufficiently addressed. In practice, prepared feeds for other crustaceans or for sturgeon are commonly used for its cultivation. In natural habitats, the diet of this crayfish consists primarily of macrophytes (up to 87.5%) and detritus (42.8%), with the proportion of the plant component increasing with body size. The omnivorous feeding type creates opportunities for finding cheaper protein sources compared to fishmeal. Analysis of scientific research has shown that black soldier fly larvae and yellow mealworm can be used as alternatives to fishmeal in feeds for the Australian crayfish. Among plant-based raw materials, soybean, rapeseed, and peanut meal are unsuitable components. The specific feeding behavior of the Red Claw Crayfish necessitates sufficient stabilization and binding of feed pellets. Furthermore, the shape of the feed pellets must be considered, with the prism shape being the most preferable. Developing feed formulations that account for the biological specifics of the Red Claw Crayfish will enhance the efficiency of its aquaculture and reduce costs for farmers.

Purpose. To identify the main dietary characteristics and nutritional requirements of the Australian red claw crayfish Cherax quadricarinatus in order to develop feed formulations that ensure high farming efficiency and economic sustainability in aquaculture.

Materials and methods. A comparative – analytical approach was applied in this study. The information base was formed through the analysis of more than 150 scientific publications from both domestic and international sources. Literature searches were conducted in databases such as eLibrary, ScienceDirect, ResearchGate, Google Scholar, Wiley, and others, using keywords in both Russian and English.

Results. The analysis revealed that Cherax quadricarinatus is capable of effectively digesting both plant- and animal-based dietary components. Protein was identified as the primary limiting nutrient, with an optimal content for juveniles ranging between 30-33%. As an alternative to fish meal – the most expensive component of aquafeeds – promising protein sources include black soldier fly larvae, yellow mealworms, poultry by-products, and microbial protein DREAMFEED. The species’ specific feeding behavior necessitates high water stability and mechanical strength of feed pellets, as well as adjustment of their shape and size according to crayfish age; prismatic pellets are considered optimal. Experimental studies of both domestic and international feed formulations demonstrated that the use of alternative protein sources and locally available raw materials can reduce feed costs without compromising growth rates or survival.

Conclusion. The efficiency of Cherax quadricarinatus aquaculture is largely determined by the quality and nutritional balance of the feed. The biological features of this species, including its versatile digestive system and ability to process a wide range of organic substances, provide a basis for the development of diets using alternative protein sources. Diets that maintain an optimal balance of proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals contribute to enhanced productivity, survival, and profitability of aquaculture farms. The improvement of feed formulations and manufacturing technologies aimed at increasing water stability and adapting pellet size to different developmental stages represents a key direction for the further advancement of Cherax quadricarinatus aquaculture.