COMMERCIAL AQUACULTURE SYSTEMS FOR CRAWFISH IN THE NORTHEASTERN UNITED STATES

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Abstract
This paper examines several alternative strategies for the development of supply and demand (market) for freshwater crawfish produced through aquaculture in the northeastern United States. The potential for four species (Orconectes virilis, O. immunis, Procambarus clarkii and Pacifastacus leniusculus) will be examined in each of the following aquaculture production systems: a) wildstock fishery, b) planting in ponds, c) ponds with supplemental feeding, d) extended season ponds, e) hatchery and grow‐out, and f) fully closed systems.Demand for crawfish is examined in three categories: scientific and instructional use, bait for angling, and human food. The food market demand, which will receive the greatest attention, is examined in terms of three potential directions: local specialty markets, mid distance (regional) metropolitan markets, and international markets. The paper summarizes the potential systems, given present and proposed future barriers and opportunities for the development of commercial culture systems.