DA crafts guidelines for crayfish farming

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Agriculture (DA)’s fisheries arm has begun crafting national guidelines for the farming of Australian redclaw crayfish, aiming to provide small-scale fish farmers with a framework to develop a new source of livelihood.

The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) said recently that it held a series of consultations that started in Luzon and continued in the Visayas and Mindanao.

The BFAR said it gathered inputs from researchers, regional implementers and fisherfolk to finalize rules for cultivating the species in controlled environments.

The agency said the draft guidelines are grounded on environmental risk assessments and technical reviews.

“With every opportunity comes responsibility. This initiative is not just about farming a new species-- it’s about doing so without harming the natural balance of our inland and coastal ecosystems,” said BFAR assistant director for technical services Isidro Velayo Jr.

The species, scientifically known as Cherax quadricarinatus, has been designated a priority emerging species under the government’s aquaculture development program, positioning it as a potential alternative source of livelihood for small-scale fish farmers.

The proposed rules include requirements on biosecurity, containment systems and monitoring to ensure that crayfish farms are properly managed, preventing escapes and competition with native aquatic life.

The BFAR said its aim is to support sustainable aquaculture that creates new livelihood opportunities without compromising ecosystems that sustain fisheries and communities.

“This is about expanding livelihood options while protecting what we already have. If done right, crayfish farming can be both productive and responsible,” said BFAR national director Elizer Salilig.

The agency said the consultations also highlighted the need for transitional support for farmers, stronger biosecurity measures and clear certification rules.

These recommendations are now being integrated into the final guidelines, which will form the basis of policies on crayfish culture in the country.

According to market research firm IMARC Group, the global crayfish market reached $24.4 billion in 2024 and is expected to grow to $173.3 billion by 2033, highlighting the potential for the Philippine aquaculture sector to tap into this expanding market.