The Red Claw Crayfish (Cherax quadricarinatus) is a small freshwater crustacean in the Parastacidae family of Southern Hemisphere freshwater crayfish. It is also known as the Australian Red Claw Crayfish, Queensland Red Claw, Redclaw, Tropical Blue Crayfish, and Freshwater Blueclaw Crayfish.
The Red Claw Crayfish ranges in colour from dark-brown to blue-green with white spots on its body. The adult male has distinct red patch of the outer margin of its claws. It has three pairs of pincers.
It grows to 10-15 centimetres (4-6 inches) long. The female is smaller than the male.
It is found in the tropical rivers and streams in the north of Australia. It is omnivorous, and feeds on small aquatic animals.
The female lays 300-800 eggs which the male fertilises. The eggs are attached to her pleopods situated on the underside of her tail.
Location of photographs: Berlin Aquarium, Germany
Location of photographs: Berlin Aquarium, Germany
Photographer: Martina Nicolls
Martina Nicolls: SIMILAR BUT DIFFERENT IN THE ANIMAL KINGDOM