Source: KENTUCKY STATE UNIVERSITY submitted to NRP
NUTRITION REQUIREMENTS, PRODUCT QUALITY, AND FIELD TRIALS OF RED CLAW CRAYFISH
Sponsoring Institution
National Institute of Food and Agriculture
Project Status
COMPLETE
Funding Source
OTHER GRANTS
Reporting Frequency
Annual
Accession No.
0197323
Grant No.
2003-38814-13954
Cumulative Award Amt.
(N/A)
Proposal No.
2003-03975
Multistate No.
(N/A)
Project Start Date
Sep 15, 2003
Project End Date
Sep 14, 2007
Grant Year
2003
Program Code
[EQ.Q1]- (N/A)
Recipient Organization
KENTUCKY STATE UNIVERSITY
(N/A)
FRANKFORT,KY 40601
Performing Department
AQUACULTURE
Non Technical Summary
Aquaculture has been the fastest-growing segment of U.S. agriculture for the past 15 years; however, with increased foreign competition, new and innovative aquatic species must be considered. Red claw crayfish appear to have potential as a suitable freshwater culture species. They are easy to spawn, eat a prepared diet, and command a high price due to their large size and resemblence to lobsters. However, little information exists on their nutritional requirements. The purpose of this project is to determine the nutrient requirements of red claw; formulate inexpensive, nutritious diets; evaluate processing traits; determine storage quality of red claw tail muscle; and to establish small farm demonstrations so that farmers can see how to grow red claw and possibly integrate these freshwater crustaceans into their farm as sustainable crop and income diversifyers.
Animal Health Component
60%
Research Effort Categories
Basic
40%
Applied
60%
Developmental
(N/A)
Classification

Knowledge Area (KA)Subject of Investigation (SOI)Field of Science (FOS)Percent
3023720101050%
3083720101020%
6013720301015%
9033720303015%
Knowledge Area
601 - Economics of Agricultural Production and Farm Management; 302 - Nutrient Utilization in Animals; 308 - Improved Animal Products (Before Harvest); 903 - Communication, Education, and Information Delivery;

Subject Of Investigation
3720 - Crawfish;

Field Of Science
1010 - Nutrition and metabolism; 3010 - Economics; 3030 - Information and communication;
Goals / Objectives
The freshwater crayfish, Cherax quadricarinatus, (or red claw), is one of three Australian species being cultured commercially. Because of its desirable traits, it is now being cultured in the United States as well as in Southeast Asia and South America. There are several advantages of red claw over other freshwater crustaceans that have attracted aquaculturists and business. Red claw tolerate a higher water temperature than other crustaceans, tolerate crowded conditions, are considered non-burrowing, consume a wide array of food items, and can grow 80-150 g in 6-8 months in the southern U.S. This is in comparison to native red swamp crayfish, Procambarus clarkii, which can grow 20-35 g during a growing season (Huner and Barr, 1991; Masser and Rouse, 1993). Since freshwater crustaceans are considered a "luxury" item by restaurants and seafood distributors, especially in inland regions of the U.S., farmers in Kentucky should be able to sell red claw at prices higher than they could for most fish species. With demand for seafood high, as well as the potential price paid for pound ($5.00-10.00/ lb), red claw may be an ideal aquaculture species to grow for limited-resource farmers with access to ponds in the Commonwealth of Kentucky to diversify their crop and economic bases. Two issues are of paramount importance in relation to product quality of red claw: sensory properties and microbial stability. The first issue is concerned with consumer acceptability while the second with food safety. Both must be fully investigated before the red claw can be promoted as a commercial product in the U.S. Furthermore, the present food consumption pattern in the United States indicates a rapid growth in the "ready-to-eat" market sector, which has been driven primarily by the increasing demand for convenience food items. So far, no study has been performed to evaluate the shelf stability and consumer acceptability of precooked red claw. It is hoped that by taking this comprehensive approach to answer the major questions concerning palatability, safety, storage stability, and consumer acceptability, we will be able to provide scientific and technical data that is critically needed by the farmers and the food industry in their effort to initiate this profitable niche agribusiness.
Project Methods
The first objective is to evaluate the use of a less-expensive plant protein ingredient (soybean meal) as partial or total replacement of fish meal and evaluate the interaction between protein quality and dietary protein level in diets for juvenile red claw. The second objective will be to determine the quantitative dietary requirement for cholesterol of juvenile red claw. A third objective will be to elucidate and determine the essential fatty acid requirements for juvenile red claw. A fourth objective will be to determine the minimum level of dietary protein required for acceptable growth of red claw grown in ponds, with and without a supplemental nutrient source (hay). The fifth study will determine growth and survival on red claw stocked into ponds without feeding a prepared diet (determine impact of natural foods), fed an inexpensive plant nutrient source (hay), and prepared diets of varying protein level. A related study will determine the minimum level of dietary protein required for acceptable growth of red claw grown in ponds, with and without organic agricultural by-products (potato peelings). To ensure that red claw grown for human consumption can be processed and stored properly and without detrimental effects to food quality, the sensory properties and microbial stability of raw and precooked red claw meat stored at 2 degrees Celsius. Lastly, in an effort to assist small farmers in Kentucky, and elswhere in the region and the U.S., the project will establish small farm demonstrations where farmers could be trained in the culture techniques of red claw, and sell their product to local and regional markets.

Progress 09/15/03 to 09/14/07

Outputs
OUTPUTS: Activities included conducting experiments, analyzing data from all research studies; teaching farmers proper culture techniques for growing red claw; field demonstrations of red claw; marketing red claw to restaurants; field days where other persons could observe red claw culture and harvesting; numerous conferences attended where information on red claw nutrition and culture were presented both nationally and internationally; mentoring undergraduate and graduate students on proper scientific methods for nutrition studies; teaching students on proper culture techniques for red claw; new applied and basic information on the nutrient requirements of red claw and practical diet formulations; establishment of red claw in Kentucky high schools as the aquaculture model to teach students about aquaculture; training high school teachers in Kentucky about aquaculture and red claw so that they could better engage their students in the discipline; numerous publications in lay and scientific literature to disseminate information. PARTICIPANTS: Dr. Carl D. Webster served as PI on the project and was involved in all aspects of the project. Dr. Youling Xiong (UNiversity of Kentucky) served as collaborator and conducted all aspects of product quality. Mr. Kenneth R. Thompson served as Co-Investigator on the project and assisted in all aspects of the project. Ms. Laura A. Muzinic served as graduate student on the project and was involved in use of alternative protein research with red claw. Ms. Linda Metts served as Research Assistant on the project and assisted in all aspects of the studies, data collection, and data analysis. Barry and Linda Raymer served as farmers who volunteered to grow red claw for two summers for the field trials and marketing demonstration component of the project. Many other individuals offered assistance in this project but did not meet the definition of involvement for the project (one person month). TARGET AUDIENCES: Target audience included any and all persons and groups interested in aquaculture and crustaceans (red claw). These could include, but not limited to, producers, small and limited-resource farmers, government agencies and individuals, feed mills, funding agencies, commodity groups, chefs, restaurants, marketing groups, primary and secondary education teachers and students, undergraduate and graduate students, and all other interested entities. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: No major modifications of this project were initiated.

Impacts
This project has added a large amount of new and specific knowledge to the nutrient requirements and practical feed formulations for red claw crayfish. Previous to these research experiments, producers either fed an expensive marine shrimp diet, or fed an inexpensive diet comprised mainly of corn. Use of the marine shrimp diet was wasteful financially as fish meal is the principal ingredient, and fish meal is the most expensive macro ingredient in an aquaculture diet. Feeding a low-protein diet consisting of corn was wasteful in terms of production as growth of red claw was not optimal since corn diets did not meet the nutrient requirements of red claw. This project elucidated nutrient requirements of red claw so that more accurate and economically-sustainable diets could be produced. This could greatly assist the industry, allowing for profitability and industry expansion.

Publications

  • Thompson, K.R., Muzinic, L.A., and Webster, C.D. 2004. Red claw crayfish produce well on lower-protein feeds. Global Aquaculture Advocate 7(2): 73-74.
  • Thompson, K.R., Muzinic, L.A., and Webster, C.D. 2004. Evaluation of processing traits of male and female red claw crayfish, Cherax quadricarinatus, fed practical diets containing various protein levels. Kentucky Aquatic Farming 17(1): 10-11.
  • Bailey, T., Thompson, K.R., Metts, L.S., and Webster, C.D. 2007. Effects on growth, survival, and body composition of Australian red claw crayfish when fed a practical diet containing different lipid sources. Kentucky Academy of Science, Louisville, KY. Metts, L.S., Thompson, K.R., and Webster, C.D. 2007. Growth, processing traits and body composition of Australian red claw crayfish fed either prepared diets and/or alfalfa hay. Fish Feed and Nutrition Workshop, Auburn, AL.
  • Metts, L.S., Thompson, K.R., and Webster, C.D. 2007. Evaluating forage-based and diet-based culture methods for Australian red claw crayfish Cherax quadricarinatus grown in ponds for sustainable aquaculture. Alltech Annual Biotechnology Symposium, Lexington, KY.
  • Bailey, T.J., Thompson, K.R., Metts, L.S., and Webster, C.D. 2007. Growth of Australian red claw crayfish (Cherax quadricarinatus) fed diets with different protein levels, with and without fish meal. Aquaculture 07, San Antonio, TX.
  • Thompson, K.R., Muzinic, L.A., Engler, L.S., and Webster, C.D. 2006. Effects of feeding practical diets containing different protein levels, with or without fish meal, on growth, survival, body composition, and processing traits of male and female Australian red claw crayfish (Cherax quadricarinatus) grown in ponds. Aquacult. Nutr. 12: 227-238.
  • Thompson, K.R., Muzinic, L.A., Engler, L.S., and Webster, C.D. 2005. Evaluation of practical diets containing three different protein levels, with and without fish meal, for juvenile Australian red claw crayfish (Cherax quadricarinatus). Aquaculture 244:241-250.
  • Metts, L.S., Thompson, K.R., Muzinic, L.A., and Webster, C.D. 2008. Effects of feeding practical diets containing different protein levels, with or without fish meal, on growth and survival of Australian red claw (Cherax quadricarinatus). World Aquaculture Magazine.
  • Thompson, K.R., Muzinic, L.A., Engler, L.S., and Webster, C.D. 2005. Recent status of nutrition and feeds for Australian red claw crayfish. Aquacult. Mag. 31(6):28-36.
  • Metts, L.S., Thompson, K.R., and Webster, C.D. 2007. Effects of forage-based feeding compared to practical diets containing different levels of protein on growth and survival of male and female Australian red claw crayfish Cherax quadricarinatus grown in temperate climate ponds. Aquaculture 07, San Antonio, TX.
  • Webster, C.D., Thompson, K.R., and Metts, L.S. 2007. Culture and nutrition of Australian red claw crayfish Cherax quadricarinatus for small farmers. Aquaculture 07, San Antonio, TX.
  • Chen, G., Xiong, Y.L., Newman, M.C., Webster, C.D., Thompson, K.R., and Metts, L.S. 2008. Carbon dioxide atmospheric packaging reduces microbial survival and physiocochemical changes in red claw crayfish, Cherax quadricarinatus, tail muscle during frozen storage. J. World Aquacult. Soc.
  • Chen, G., Xiong, Y.L., Kong, B., Newman, M.C., Thompson, K.R., Metts, L.S., and Webster, C.D. 2007. Microbiological and physiocochemical properties of red claw crayfish (Cherax quadricarinatus) stored in different package systems at 2 C. J. Food Sci. 72: E442-449
  • Kong, B., Xiong, Y.L., and Webster, C.D. 2007. Influence of gender and spawning on thermal stability and proteolytic degradation of proteins in Australian red claw crayfish (Cherax quadricarinatus) muscle stored at 2 C. Intl. J. Food Sci. and Tech. 42: 1073-1079.
  • Metts, L.S., Thompson, K.R., Xiong, Y., Kong, B., Webster, C.D., and Brady, Y.J. 2007. Use of alfalfa hay, compared to feeding practical diets containing two protein levels, on growth, survival, body composition, and processing traits of Australian red claw crayfish (Cherax quadricarinatus) grown in ponds. J. World Aquacult. Soc. 38: 218-230.
  • Kong, B., Xiong, Y.L., Fang, C.C., Thompson, K.R., Metts, L.S., Muzinic, L.A., and Webster, C.D. 2006. Influence of gender and spawning on meat quality of Australian red claw crayfish (Cherax quadricarinatus) stored at 2 C. J. Food Sci. 71(6):320-325.
  • Bailey, T.J., Thompson, K.R., Metts, L.S., Muzinic, L.A., and Webster, C.D. 2006. Evaluation of practical diets containing different protein levels, with and without fish meal, for juvenile Australian red claw crayfish Cherax quadricarinatus. Kentucky Academy of Science Symposium, Morehead University, KY, Nov. 10-13.
  • Metts, L.S., Thompson, K.R., Muzinic, L.A., and Webster, C.D. 2006. Evaluation of processing traits of male and female red claw crayfish Cherax quadricarinatus fed practical diets containing various protein levels. Australasian Aquaculture Conference, Adelaide, Australia.


Progress 01/01/06 to 12/31/06

Outputs
Two pond studies were conducted. In Experiment 1, four practical diets containing 2 levels of crude protein (CP) (180 and 280 g/kg), with or without menhaden fish meal (FM), were fed to Australian red claw Cherax quadricarinatus during a 97-day feeding trial. Growth, survival, body composition and processing traits of pond-cultured red claw were determined. Juvenile red claw (mean individual weight of 5.75 g) were randomly stocked into twelve 0.04-ha ponds at a rate of 1000 per pond (25000/ha), and each diet was fed to three ponds. At harvest, the final mean weight of red claw fed Diet 4 (0 g/kg FM and 280 g/kg CP) and Diet 3 (113 g/kg FM and 280 g/kg CP) was significantly (P < 0.05) higher (62.4 and 58.5 g, respectively) than red claw fed Diet 1 (73 g/kg FM and 180 g/kg CP; 51.7 g) and Diet 2 (0 g/kg FM and 180 g/kg CP; 53.0 g). Red claw fed diets containing 280 g kg)1 CP, with or without FM, had significantly higher percent weight gain (894 and 959%, respectively) compared to red claw fed 180 g/kg CP, with or without FM (778 and 799%, respectively). Results from this study indicate that pond-cultured red claw stocked at 25000/ha can be fed a practical diet containing 280 g/kg CP with 0 g/kg FM, if a combination of plant-protein ingredients (soybean meal, distillers dried grains with solubles, and milo) is added; however, if the percentage of dietary protein level is 180 g/kg, growth is reduced even if FM is added at 73 g/kg of the diet. In Experiment 2, juvenile red claw were obtained from a commercial supplier and stocked into twelve 0.04-ha ponds at a rate of 1100 red claw per pond (27,170/ha). Mean stocking weight was 6.25 g. Three replicate ponds were randomly assigned to each of the four treatments. In treatment 1 (TRT1), red claw were stocked into ponds to which dried alfalfa hay (forage) was added at a rate of 500 kg/ha/mo; treatment 2 (TRT2) consisted of red claw being fed a prepared diet containing 13% protein; treatment 3 (TRT3) red claw were fed a diet containing 13% protein at which had dried alfalfa hay added at a rate of 500 kg/ha/month; and in treatment 4 (TRT4; control), red claw were fed a complete diet containing 28% protein. After 113 days, the final mean weight of red claw fed TRT3 was significantly (P < 0.05) higher (68.10 g) compared to that of red claw fed hay only (49.40 g), but not different from red claw fed TRT2 (56.03 g) and TRT4 (62.10 g). Likewise, red claw fed TRT3 had significantly higher percent weight gain (990%) compared to that of red claw fed hay only (690%), but not different from TRT2 (796%) and TRT4 (893%). Total yield of red claw fed TRT3 and TRT4 (968 kg/ha and 952 kg/ha) was significantly (P < 0.05) higher compared to red claw fed hay only (617 kg/ha), but did not differ from red claw fed TRT2 (882 kg/ha). Results from this study indicate that pond-cultured red claw stocked at 27,170/ha can be fed a practical diet containing 13% protein, with or without forage (alfalfa hay), compared to red claw fed a complete diet containing 28% protein; however, if alfalfa hay is added to the pond at 500 kg/ha/mo as the sole source of added nutrients, growth is reduced.

Impacts
The impact of culture of red claw has been positive and tremendous. Small farmers with limited resources can easlty grow this species and due to its large size, appearance, and superb flavor quality, demand from restaurants and seafood suppliers has been excellent. A price of between $5.00 and $7.00 per pound can be obtained by farmers in Kentucky. There have been no adverse environmental or social impacts caused from the production of this species. Indeed, this species is allowed to be grown in Kentucky with proper permits and proper pond containment pre-requisites by Kentucky Fish and Wildlife. The use of diets containing plant-protein sources may help reduce diet costs to producers and thereby, increase profits. Further, the use of alfalfa hay, in combination with a low-protein pelleted diet, may be a production method for pond-grown red claw that may reduce costs for producers and thereby, increase profits. The use of the least-cost, most efficient production methods and diet formulations for red claw is both environmentally and financially responsible. Use of these diets and further refinement of nutrient requirements for red claw will allow for industry expansion, sustainability, and producer profitability.

Publications

  • Kong, B., Xiong, Y.L., and Webster, C.D. 2007. Influence of gender and spawning on thermal stability and proteolytic degradation of proteins in Australian red claw crayfish (Cherax quadricarinatus) muscle stored at 2 C. International J. Food Sci. and Tech.
  • Metts, L.S., Thompson, K.R., Xiong, Y., Kong, B., Webster, C.D., and Brady, Y.J. 2007. Use of alfalfa hay, compared to feeding practical diets containing two protein levels, on growth, survival, body composition, and processing traits of Australian red claw crayfish (Cherax quadricarinatus) grown in ponds. J. World Aquacult. Soc. 38:
  • Kong, B., Xiong, Y.L., Fang, C.C., Thompson, K.R., Metts, L.S., Muzinic, L.A., and Webster, C.D. 2006. Influence of gender and spawning on meat quality of Australian red claw crayfish (Cherax quadricarinatus) stored at 2oC. J. Food Sci. 71(6):320-325.
  • Thompson, K.R., Muzinic, L.A., Engler, L.S., and Webster, C.D. 2006. Effects of feeding practical diets containing different protein levels, with or without fish meal, on growth, survival, body composition, and processing traits of male and female Australian red claw crayfish (Cherax quadricarinatus) grown in ponds. Aquacult. Nutr. 12: 227-238.
  • Thompson, K.R., Muzinic, L.A., Engler, L.S., and Webster, C.D. 2005. Evaluation of practical diets containing three different protein levels, with and without fish meal, for juvenile Australian red claw crayfish (Cherax quadricarinatus). Aquaculture 244:241-250.
  • Tseng, Y.C., Xiong, Y.L., and Webster, C.D. 2005. Preservation of muscle quality of frozen Australian red claw crayfish (Cherax quadricarinatus) by antioxidant treatment. Intl. J. Food Sci. and Tech. 40:841-848.


Progress 01/01/05 to 12/31/05

Outputs
Globally, interest in the culture of the Australian red claw crayfish Cherax quadricarinatus has increased during the past several years and is commercially-cultured in several countries, including China, Mexico, and Australia. It has been shown that red claw possess many favorable culture traits essential for commercial culture. Red claw can be fed prepared diets, and grow rapidly (65-90 g) in a limited (117-day) growing season in temperate-climate ponds. The purpose of the present study was to determine differences in growth, survival, body proximate composition, and processing characteristics of semi-intensively stocked red claw fed a feeding strategy in which dried forage is used solely and compared with a combination of a low protein pelleted ration plus forage, strictly a low protein pelleted ration diet, and high protein pelleted ration diet exclusively as a control, when grown in temperate climate ponds. Experimental diets were formulated to contain 130 g/kg and 280 g/kg CP based upon values of protein content of ingredients supplied by the feed mill. Dietary ingredients were processed into 5-mm sinking pellets by a commercial feed mill. Two feedings, each consisting of one-half of the total daily ration, were distributed over the entire surface area of each pond between 08:00 and 08:30, and between 15:30 and 16:00 h for 113 days. All red claw were fed the same amount of diet based upon a percentage of estimated body weight and the feeding schedule was devised by C.D. Webster (unpubl. data) with survival assumed to be 65%. Amount of diet fed was adjusted every 2 weeks. Six randomly selected ponds were fed dried alfalfa hay (forage) at a rate of 500 kg/ha/month. Some ponds were fed strictly dried alfalfa hay with no pellets, while some were fed dried alfalfa hay combined with the 130 g/kg CP diet. There were two applications per month, each consisting of one-half of the total monthly ration, and hay was distributed over the entire surface area. Before distribution, hay was water-logged in each of the six ponds for approximately two weeks to ensure that it settled to the pond bottom and was easily accessible for red claw refuge or consumption. After 113 days, the final mean weight of red claw fed Diet 3 was significantly (P < 0.05) higher (68.10 g) compared to that of red claw fed Diet 1 (49.40 g), but not different from red claw fed Diet 2 (56.03 g) and Diet 4 (62.10). Likewise, red claw fed Diet 3 had significantly higher percent weight gain (990%) compared to that of red claw fed Diet 1 (690%), but not different from Diets 2 (796%) and 4 (893%). However, feed conversion ratio (FCR) and percent survival did not differ significantly (P > 0.05) among treatments, averaging 2.85 and 66.8%. Total yield of red claw fed Diets 3 and 4 (968 kg/ha and 952 kg/ha) was significantly (P < 0.05) higher compared to red claw fed Diet 1 (617 kg/ha), but did not differ from red claw fed Diet 2 (882 kg/ha).

Impacts
Data is still being analyzed but it appears that feeding alfalfa hay with a low protein diet may provide similar growth to red claw fed a complete feed. This may greatly reduce the diet costs for producers in Kentucky (and the U.S.) So as to allow for industry expansion and increase profitability.

Publications

  • Thompson, K.R., Muzinic, L.A., Engler, L.S., and Webster, C.D. 2006. Effects of feeding practical diets containing different protein levels, with or without fish meal, on growth, survival, body composition, and processing traits of male and female Australian red claw crayfish Cherax quadricarinatus grown in ponds. Aquaculture Nutrition.
  • Thompson, K.R., Muzinic, L.A., Engler, L.S., and Webster, C.D. 2005. Removing fish meal and lowering protein in Australian red claw crayfish diets when grown indoors. Kentucky Aquatic Farming 18 (3): 8-10.
  • Thompson, K.R., Muzinic, L.A., and Webster, C.D. 2004. Evaluation of processing traits of male and female red claw crayfish, Cherax quadricarinatus, fed practical diets containing various protein levels. Kentucky Aquatic Farming 17(1): 10-11.
  • Thompson, K.R., Muzinic, L.A., Engler, L.S., Morton, S., and Webster, C.D. 2003. Research update for red claw: Based on 2002 pond production data. Kentucky Aquatic Farming 16(2): 7-9.
  • Muzinic, L.A., Thompson, K.R., and Webster, C.D. 2003. Fish meal replacement and the use of brewers grains with yeast in red claw crayfish diets. Kentucky Aquatic Farming 16(2): 10-11.
  • Thompson, K.R., Muzinic, L.A., Webster, C.D., Wurts, W.A., and Dasgupta, S. 2002. Small-Scale Pond Production of the Australian Red Claw Crayfish in Kentucky. Kentucky Aquatic Farming 15(4): 6-8.
  • Webster, C.D., Thompson, K.R., and Muzinic, L.A. 2002. Red Claw seen as potential Aquaculture Crop for Kentucky Farmers. The Aquaculture News 10(3): 1,13,20.
  • Thompson, K.R., Muzinic, L.A., Engler, L.S., and Webster, C.D. 2005. Evaluation of practical diets containing different protein levels, with or without fish meal, for juvenile Australian red claw crayfish Cherax quadricarinatus. Aquaculture 244:241-249.
  • Thompson, K.R., Muzinic, L.A., Yancey, D.H., Webster, C.D., Rouse, D.B., and Xiong, Y. 2004. Growth, processing, measurements, tail meat yield, and tail meat proximate composition of male and female Australian red claw crayfish, Cherax quadricarinatus, stocked into earthen ponds. Journal of Applied Aquaculture 16(3/4):117-129.
  • Webster, C.D., Thompson, K.R., Muzinic, L.A., Yancey, D.H., Dasgupta, S., Xiong, Y.L., Rouse, D.B., and Manomaitis, L. 2004. Preliminary assessment on growth, survival, yield, and economic return of Australian red claw crayfish, Cherax quadricarinatus, stocked at three densities in earthen ponds in a cool, temperate climate. Journal of Applied Aquaculture 15(3/4):37-50.
  • Thompson, K.R., Muzinic, L.A., Engler, L.S., Morton, S., and Webster. C.D. 2004. Effects of feeding practical diets containing various protein levels on growth, survival, body composition, and processing traits of Australian red claw crayfish, Cherax quadricarinatus, and on pond water quality. Aquaculture Research 35:659-668.
  • Muzinic, L.A., Thompson, K.R., Morris, A., Webster, C.D., Rouse, D.B., and Manomaitis, L. 2004. Partial and total replacement of fish meal with soybean meal and brewers grains with yeast in practical diets for Australian red claw crayfish, Cherax quadricarinatus. Aquaculture 230:359-376.
  • Tseng, Y.C., Xiong, Y.L., Feng, J. Ramirez-Suarez, J.C., Webster, C.D., Thompson, K.R., and Muzinic, L.A. 2003. Quality changes in Australian red claw crayfish, Cherax quadricarinatus, subjected to multiple freezing-thawing cycles. Journal of Food Quality 26:285-298.
  • Thompson, K.R., Muzinic, L.A., Christian, T.D., Webster, C.D., Manomaitis, L., and Rouse, D.B. 2003. Effect on growth, survival, and fatty acid composition of Australian red claw crayfish Cherax quadricarinatus fed practical diets with and without supplemental lecithin and/or cholesterol. Journal of World Aquaculture Society 34(1):1-10.
  • Thompson, K.R., Muzinic, L.A., Christian, T.D., Webster, C.D., Manomaitis, L., and Rouse, D.B. 2003. Lecithin requirements of juvenile Australian red claw crayfish Cherax quadricarinatus. Aquaculture Nutrition 3:223-230.
  • Tseng, Y.C., Xiong, Y.L., Webster, C.D., Thompson, K.R., and Muzinic L.A. 2002. Quality changes in Australian red claw crayfish, Cherax quadricarinatus, stored at 0C. Journal of Applied Aquaculture 12(4):53-66.
  • Webster, C.D., Thompson, K.R., Muzinic, L.A., Rouse, D.B., and Manomaitis, L. 2002. Culture and Nutrition of Red Claw Crayfish Part 1. Aquaculture Magazine 28(4): 34-38.
  • Webster, C.D., Thompson, K.R., Muzinic, L.A., Rouse, D.B., and Manomaitis, L. 2002. Culture and Nutrition of Red Claw Crayfish Part 2. Aquaculture Magazine 28(5): 35-40.
  • Webster, C.D., Thompson, K.R. and Muzinic, L.A. 2002. Red claw crayfish: A New Aquaculture Species for Kentucky? Kentucky Fish Farming 15(2): 5-7.


Progress 01/01/04 to 12/31/04

Outputs
A 97-day feeding trial was conducted in temperate zone ponds with juvenile Australian red claw crayfish to evaluate the effects on growth, survival, feed conversion ratio, body composition, amino acid composition of tail muscle meat, and processing traits. Four practical diets containing two different protein levels (18 and 28%) with or without menhaden fish meal were fed to juvenile red claw crayfish twice daily. At the conclusion of the study, specific growth rate (SGR), percent survival, feed conversion ratio, and total yield among treatments, which averaged 2.32%/day, 65.1%, 3.55, and 723.4 kg ha, were not significantly different. The final weight of red claw fed Diet 4 containing 0% fish meal and 28% crude protein was significantly higher (62.4 g) than that of red claw fed Diet 1 containing 7.25% fish meal and 18% crude protein (51.7 g), but not different from red claw fed all other diets. In a second study, six practical diets containing increasing percentages of crude protein (CP) (30, 35, and 40%) with or without anchovy fish meal (FM) were fed to juvenile red claw crayfish (mean individual weight = 1.12 g) during an 8-week indoor feeding trial. Growth, survival, feed conversion ratio, and amino acid composition of tail muscle meat of juvenile red claw were determined. At the conclusion of the experiment, specific growth rate (SGR) and percent survival among treatments, which averaged 3.91%/day and 80.7%, overall, were not significantly different among treatments. The percent weight gain of red claw fed a diet containing 20% fish meal and 40% crude protein was significantly higher (1352%) than that of red claw fed a diet containing 0% fish meal and 30% crude protein (828%), but not different from red claw fed all other diets. Results from this study indicate that juvenile red claw can be fed a practical diet containing 35% CP with 0% FM if a combination of less expensive plant protein ingredients (SBM, wheat, BGY, and milo) is added. In a third study, a 117-day feeding trial was conducted in ponds with juvenile Australian red claw crayfish to evaluate the effects on growth, survival, body composition, and processing traits when fed diets containing three different protein levels (22, 32, and 42%), and the effects of feeding these diets on pond water quality. At harvest, there were no significant differences in the individual weight, percentage weight gain, or specific growth rate among treatments, which averaged 75.3 g, 1535%, and 2.38%/day, respectively. Mean total ammonia nitrogen (TAN) levels were significantly higher in ponds with red claw fed the 42% protein diet (0.55 mg/l) compared to ponds with red claw fed diets containing 22% (0.32 mg/l) or 32% (0.38 mg/l) protein. These results indicate that a practical diet containing 22% (as fed basis) protein may be adequate for pond production of red claw when stocked at the density used in this study, and that a diet containing 42% protein adversely affected levels of TAN and nitrite, possibly reducing overall survival of red claw. Use of a diet with 22% protein may allow red claw producers to reduce diet costs and thereby increase profits.

Impacts
Aquaculture has used an increasing percentage of the global fish meal supply during the past decade. This has allowed for criticism by some groups opposed to the culture of non-herbivorous species. Further, fish meal is the most-expensive ingredient used in aquaculture diets and reducing or eliminating fish meal from practical diets may allow producers to reduce operating costs and increase profits. Red claw crayfish are easy to culture and have a high value for local seafood markets in the United States. Currently, Kentucky is the only state in the U.S. where farmers have grown red claw and sold them to markets. Demand is high for this product. To increase profitability for farmers, a diet that is nutritious, yet cost-effective, is needed. This will allow for red claw to be produced for less, increase farmer profits, and allow for industry expansion.

Publications

  • Webster, C.D., Thompson, K.R., Muzinic, L.A., Yancey, D.H., Dasgupta, S., Xiong, Y.L., Rouse, D.B., and Manomaitis, L. 2004. Preliminary evaluation of growth, yield, and economic return of Australian red claw crayfish, Cherax quadricarinatus, stocked at three densities in earthen ponds in a cool temperate climate. J. Appl. Aquacult. 15(3/4): 37-50.
  • Muzinic, L.A., Thompson, K.R., Christian, T.D., Webster, C.D., Rouse, D.B., and Manomaitis, L. 2004. Evaluation of replacing fish meal and shrimp meal with soybean meal and brewer's grains with yeast in practical diets for Australian red claw crayfish, Cherax quadricarinatus. Aquaculture 230:359-376.
  • Thompson, K.R., Muzinic, L.A., Engler, L.S., Morton, S.R., and Webster, C.D. 2004. Effects of feeding practical diets containing various protein levels on growth, survival, body composition, and processing traits of Australian red claw crayfish (Cherax quadricarinatus), and on pond water quality. Aquacult. Res. 35: 659-668.
  • Thompson, K.R., Muzinic, L.A., Yancey, D.H., Webster, C.D., Rouse, D.B., and Xiong, Y.L. 2004. Growth, processing measurements, tail meat yield, and tail meat proximate composition of male and female Australian red claw crayfish, Cherax quadricarinatus, stocked into earthen ponds. J. Appl. Aquacult. 16(3/4): 117-129.
  • Thompson, K.R., Muzinic, L.A., and Webster, C.D. 2004. Red claw crayfish produce well on lower-protein feeds. Global Aquaculture Advocate 7(2): 73-74.
  • Thompson, K.R., Muzinic, L.A., and Webster, C.D. 2004. Evaluation of processing traits of male and female red claw crayfish, Cherax quadricarinatus, fed practical diets containing various protein levels. Kentucky Aquatic Farming 17(1): 10-11.
  • Tseng, Y.C., Xiong, Y.L., and Webster, C.D. 2004. Preservation of muscle quality of frozen Australian red claw crayfish (Cherax quadricarinatus) by antioxidant treatment. Intl. J. Food Sci. and Technology.


Progress 01/01/03 to 12/31/03

Outputs
A feeding trial using juvenile red claw (weight of 1.5 g) was conducted using individual culture units. Diets contained either 30%, 35%, or 40% protein, with or without fish meal as an ingredient. Red claw were fed three times daily for 8 weeks. Initial and final weights were measured to the nearest 0.001 g using an analytical balance. Water was supplied to individual culture units using separate water lines. Water was recirculated using a 3000-L biofilter system. Data is currently being analyzed.

Impacts
Aquaculture has used an increasing percentage of the global fish meal supply during the past decade. This has allowed for criticism by some groups opposed to the culture of non-herbivorous species. Further, fish meal is the most-expensive ingredient used in aquaculture diets and reducing or eliminating fish meal from practical diets may allow producers to reduce operating costs and increase profits. Red claw crayfish are easy to culture and have a high value for local seafood markets in the United States. Currently, Kentucky is the only state in the U.S. where farmers have grown red claw and sold them to markets. Demand is high for this product. To increase profitability for farmers, a diet that is nutritious, yet cost-effective, is needed. This will allow for red claw to be produced for less, increase farmer profits, and allow for industry expansion.

Publications

  • No publications reported this period