Freshwater crayfish demand has increased over 8 times in the last 15 years. They represent the 6th most valuable aquaculture group with production over 2 million tons and an unmet demand of more than 200,000 ton/year in worldwide markets, including Asia, Europe, the U.S. and Latin-America . The Redclaw crayfish adapts to diverse culinary options for a unique organoleptic experience, giving it a distinct competitive advantage.
The
increase in
crayfish demand worldwide requires state-of-the-art technologies to fully incorporate new species for commercial production. The zero-water exchange, full water reutilization
system for the intensive culture of redclaw crayfish, is a knowledge-based technology developed over the last 30 years. The photoheterotrophic culture is sustainable and bio secure, allowing for efficient feed use while self-cleaning organic wastes in the pond. It has been tested and validated at the commercial level , increasing yields significantly over traditional technologies.
A three phase (reproduction, nursery and grow out) 20-ha modular system produces over 200 ton of redclaw/year for continuous product delivery to the market. The modules can be replicated in locations where demand is identified. With an investment of US$4.6 million for infrastructure development (80 0.25-ha ponds), US$ 1 million for operation to first-harvest (month 18) and a sale price of US$15/kg, annual gross income is US$2.9 million, with production and commercialization costs of US$4.5/kg and a b enefit/cost of 4.3. A 10-year income statement shows: IRR= 38%, NPV= US$5.2 million, ROI= 28 and payback time of 3.1 years.