Community seminar sheds light on the iconic Murray crayfish

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Community seminar sheds light on the iconic Murray crayfish
20 Nov 2013 - NSW DPI

The Narrandera Fisheries Centre will host a community seminar next month, discussing the iconic and unique Murray crayfish and results from the recent surveys in the Murrumbidgee and Murray catchments, later this month.
The seminar entitled ‘Murray Crayfish – Why are they like underwater elephants?’ will be presented by Department of Primary Industries (DPI) Project Officer, Martin Asmus.

“The seminar will take a look at the interesting biology and ecology of this prehistoric looking crustacean and give some background on research undertaken so far,” Mr Asmus said.

“Murray crayfish were once abundant across much of the southern Murray-Darling Basin, however, since the 1950’s their numbers and distribution has declined due to many factors. More recently severe declines have occurred in the mid-Murray and Murrumbidgee Rivers due to black-water and other unknown events.

“Much is still unknown about these creatures, however we are building up a better picture of where they are still present and what factors are impacting on their numbers.

“Information collected from more than a hundred sites in the past two years has provided invaluable data on the current state and structure of crayfish populations within NSW waterways and impoundments.

“Continued monitoring of many of these sites will be critical in the effective management of the recreational fishery.

“This month’s seminar will give the community the opportunity to learn more about this valued crayfish.”

The seminar will be held on Tuesday, November 26 from 6.30pm at the DPI’s Narrandera Fisheries Centre, John Lake Centre, Buckingbong Road, Narrandera.

The seminar will be FREE and there will be a BBQ meal and light refreshments after the presentation.

The John Lake Centre, featuring a native fish aquarium and poster display, will be open from 6pm as well as after the seminar, for anyone wishing to do a casual tour of the facilities.

DPI staff will also be available if you wish to discuss any topics in greater detail. The presentation will take one hour with questions, and the evening will conclude at approximately 8:30pm.

Seats are limited so to avoid disappointment, it is essential that you book ahead by calling the Narrandera Fisheries Centre on (02) 6958 8200 between 9am and 4:30pm Monday to Friday.

Bookings will not be accepted after 12pm on the 26th of November, and walk-ins on the evening will not be possible.