DPIRD warning after dangerous crayfish found in Bunbury and Capel sting

More than 70 dangerous crayfish which pose an “extreme risk” to native crustaceans in local waterways have been seized during a Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development sting. The red swamp crayfish is a highly invasive species that has the potential to introduce exotic diseases into ecosystems, such as crayfish plague, which could cause large-scale mortalities. DPIRD fisheries officers and officers from South West District Police recently carried out four search warrants in Bunbury and Capel. It is illegal to keep, breed, or release any fish declared as noxious in WA, and aquatic biosecurity compliance supervising fisheries officer Renee Hilditch said significant penalties applied. “Anyone found in possession of noxious species, such as red swamp crayfish, could face fines up to $10,000 under WA’s Fish Resources Management Act,” she said. “I urge members of the public with any information about red swamp crayfish or other illegal aquarium species to contact the department.” The crayfish can range in length between five and 12cm, have elongated heads and claws and have rows of bright ref bumps on the front and side of their first leg. Ms Hilditch said part of the operation was to work with the community to help them understand the risks. “DPIRD’s Aquatic Biosecurity Compliance team is working to educate the community on the need to minimise the risks of noxious fish impacting on WA’s aquatic environment,” she said.