THE Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) is drafting guidelines for the cultivation of Australian Redclaw Crayfish (ARC), the Department of Agriculture (DA) said.
The plan to develop ARC aquaculture is focused on small-scale fish farmers to offer them an alternative source of livelihood, the DA said.
The guidelines cover biosecurity, containment systems, and monitoring, ensuring that ARC farms are managed to prevent escapes and minimize harm to native aquatic life.
BFAR Assistant Director for Technical Services Isidro Velayo, Jr. was quoted as saying: “This initiative is not just about farming a new species — it’s about doing so without harming the natural balance of our inland and coastal ecosystems.”
BFAR National Director Elizer Salilig said ARC farming holds potential to be a “productive and responsible” means of expanding livelihood opportunities.
“This is about expanding livelihood options while protecting what we already have. If done right, crayfish farming can be both productive and responsible,” Mr. Salilig said.
The BFAR held public consultations nationwide to discuss transitional support, biosecurity, and certification rules. — Andre Christopher H. Alampay
