Abstract:
Globally, the consumption of crayfish as food and utilization as ornamental species is increasing
rapidly in most countries implying that its farming is gaining significant importance in the
aquaculture sector with a considerable interest in the production for commercial purpose. In
order for this to happen, it is vital to understand the morphological and genetic characteristics
of crayfish species which would assist in selection and propagation of the desirable species for
specific breeding objectives. The objective of this review was to highlight the morphological and
genetic characteristics, the growth and reproduction, feeding and nutrition, economic
significance and challenges and opportunities in crayfish production. In order to review the
crayfish potential production in Africa, we used published statistical data and information from
literature and compared all the information obtained to the rest of the world. An analysis of the
existing information indicated that during the early stages of post hatch, a high mortality rate
can result due to poor nutrition which is linked with low survivability. The breed is another
important factor that influence productivity and profitability of crayfish farming. Crayfish exhibit
detectable differences in breeding patterns which is highly influenced by the climatic, health
and nutritional environments. Other factors that impact the crayfish sector include climate
change, poor water quality, deteriorating habitat, overfishing and diseases such as crayfish
plaque. There are various options in the management and conservation strategies applicable to
crayfish production and include reintroduction, restocking and habitat restoration. The
importance of crayfish as a species cannot be overstated as it has contributed food and incomes
to households. It is cheap to start and operate, scalable and climate friendly approach to
enhancing food and nutrition security in poor households. This review paper is therefore an
attempt to gather together information relating to crayfish production which can trigger interest
in using the species as a source of nutrients and incomes mainly in Africa where it has not
attracted much interest.
Key Words: Crayfish, genetic variation, growth, nutrition, Morphology
