VU

Cherax destructor

Unknown

Overview

A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.

Cherax destructor faces severe population declines primarily due to habitat degradation from agricultural runoff, urban development, and water extraction in its native Murray-Darling Basin. Competition and hybridization with introduced crayfish species, particularly the invasive yabby populations, further threaten genetic integrity of remaining wild populations. Water quality deterioration from increased salinity and pollution has rendered many historical habitats unsuitable for this species.

Threat summary

Habitat

Cherax destructor inhabits slow-flowing rivers, billabongs, and wetlands throughout the Murray-Darling Basin in southeastern Australia. The species prefers shallow freshwater environments with muddy or sandy substrates and abundant aquatic vegetation for shelter and foraging.

Other threatened species in PARASTACIDAE

VU

Cherax papuanus

Unknown
VU

Astacoides hobbsi

Unknown
VU

Astacoides betsileoensis

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VU

Astacoides caldwelli

Declining

Frequently asked questions

Why is Cherax destructor classified as Vulnerable?
Cherax destructor is classified as Vulnerable because the population is declining and the species faces a high risk of extinction in the medium-term future if current pressures continue. Cherax destructor faces severe population declines primarily due to habitat degradation from agricultural runoff, urban development, and water extraction in its native Murray-Darling Basin. Competition and hybridization with introduced crayfish species, particularly the invasive yabby populations, further threaten genetic integrity of remaining wild populations. Water quality deterioration from increased salinity and pollution has rendered many historical habitats unsuitable for this species.
Where does Cherax destructor live?
Cherax destructor occurs in across multiple regions. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Cherax destructor?
The main threats to Cherax destructor are ai-1, ai-2, ai-3, and ai-4. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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