Redclaw crayfish, commonly known as Australian freshwater crayfish or green lobster, are among the world's most precious freshwater shrimp species. They have recently been introduced into China as a premium freshwater aquaculture breed.

The redclaw crayfish has a large, plump body with rapid growth and high yield. Rich in nutrients, its meat is tender and firm with a sweet taste, possessing great economic value.

The Australian freshwater crayfish. [Photo/WeChat account of Nuan news]

A pilot and demonstration project to cultivate redclaw crayfish was launched in April by the Agricultural and Animal Husbandry Technology Promotion Center (Aquatic Technology Station) of Ordos and the Agricultural and Animal Husbandry Technology Promotion Center of Hanggin Banner.

Using greenhouses and ponds, they developed a "greenhouse-pond relay" model to trial new varieties and breeding methods of redclaw crayfish.

The weight of cultivated redclaw crayfish meets expectations. [Photo provided to investordos.goinnermongolia.com.cn]

The project covered an area of 3 mu (0.2 hectares). As of Sept 19, the average weight of the crayfish reached 80 grams, with an average length of 12 centimeters, achieving the expected results.

The trial benefits the local aquaculture industry. [Photo/WeChat account of Nuan news]

This is the first new variety trial conducted in the Inner Mongolia autonomous region. It has enhanced the utilization of saline-alkali water and soil resources, the development of the region's specialty aquaculture industry, and rural vitalization.