Crayfish Production Potential in Africa: A Review

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.