Cherax quadricarinatus.

Cherax quadricarinatus is a semi-aquatic crayfish, naturally distributed in a wide variety of habitats in its native range of distribution (Queensland and Northern Territory in Australia and southeastern Papua New Guinea). Due to the harsh physical conditions it has adapted to in its native range, C. quadricarinatus has a robust nature with broad tolerances to environmental extremes. Such environmental tolerance, combined with its rapid growth rate and relatively large dimensions, makes it an ideal species for aquaculture and aquarium trade. In Australia, the commercial interest in this species began in late 1980s, when it was introduced to Western Australia and New South Wales. Starting from 1990s, many countries in southern Asia (including China), North and South America, New Caledonia, Africa, Israel and parts of Europe obtained the permit to import broodstock and juveniles. Established, feral populations are reported in Ecuador, Israel, Mexico, Jamaica, Paraguay, Puerto Rico, Singapore, South Africa, Thailand, and Zambia. No studies have investigated the invasive potential of C. quadricarinatus and the negative impact it may exert on the invaded ecosystems. Concerns are raised about its potential to outcompete indigenous crustaceans and other components of the invaded communities. It may be also a vector of parasites and diseases.