Species that are considered uncertain risk need a more in-depth assessment beyond the Risk Summary to better define the species’ risk to U.S. environments. This additional information will help inform decisions on where, when, and how the species may be used to minimize risks of them becoming invasive.
Cherax quinquecarinatus is a crayfish native to southwestern Australia. Climate match to the contiguous U.S. is medium, with high match occurring in southern California. C. quinquecarinatus is a target for both recreational and Aboriginal subsistence fishing but has not been reported as traded or introduced outside its native range. Due to the perceived risk to the ecology and people of their respective states, the states of Florida and Washington have prohibited the import, transport, and possession of nearly all Cherax crayfish, including C. quinquecarinatus, with few exceptions. However, without a species-specific scientific study documenting harm or a lack thereof in an environment where C. quinquecarinatus has been introduced, the overall risk assessment category for this species remains Uncertain.
Publication date
Type of document
Uncertain Risk
Program
