Europe’s first book on Australian crayfish farming: who it’s for and why it’s worth reading

In 2025, a unique book, the first of its kind in Europe, was published in Ukraine: ‘The Technology of Australian Crayfish Farming’, authored by leading industry experts — Dmytro Yezva, Pavlo Kutishchev and Arkadiy Dovzhenko. This is not merely a set of instructions. It is a practical guide for those who wish to carve out a niche for themselves in an innovative sector — the farming of the Australian red-clawed crayfish (Cherax quadricarinatus).

On the Crawtec blog, we’ll explain in detail what makes this book special, why it has become the primary methodological resource for future farm owners, and how it can help you avoid common pitfalls and launch a profitable business with minimal risks.

Practical experience, not theory

Unlike general aquaculture guides, this book is based on decades of experience from Ukrainian farmers and technologists. It covers not only the biology of Cherax quadricarinatus, but also business logic, budgeting, process organisation, incubation, rearing and sales.

From choosing a plot of land to calculating costs for feed, electricity and generators — everything is structured, clear and illustrated with examples. Everything that is traditionally learnt the hard way — through mistakes, losses and ‘learning the hard way’ — has already been worked through by the authors in this book.

Why the Australian crayfish is not an exotic species, but a profitable future

The book explains in detail why the Australian red-clawed crayfish is the ideal species for industrial aquaculture in Ukraine:

  • rapid maturation — market weight in 6–12 months;
  • high fertility — up to 4 broods per year;
  • taste qualities similar to lobster, which is ideal for HoReCa;
  • can be farmed in ponds, recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) or combined systems;
  • disease resistance and undemanding in terms of rearing conditions;
  • can be farmed year-round in RAS, meaning a continuous income.

All this makes Cherax quadricarinatus a more profitable alternative to river crayfish, which are often poached and take 5–6 years to reach market size.

What does the new book offer beginners and experienced farmers?

For beginners, it is a step-by-step guide that helps avoid technical and financial setbacks. The authors have set out in detail where to start, how to work out a budget, how to choose a recirculating aquaculture system or pond, and which equipment is genuinely necessary, whilst distinguishing it from mere ‘fancy extras’.

For experienced farmers, it offers an in-depth understanding of hydrochemical processes, breeding systems, combating cannibalism, and working with fry and broodstock. Experienced farmers will also find new solutions and alternative strategies in the book, including combined production models with a focus on rearing, finishing, incubation and marketing.

Crawtec — equipment that fully complies with the technologies described in the book

In the book, you will find recommendations on setting up a modern crayfish farm. All the technical solutions discussed are implemented using Crawtec equipment:

  • water treatment systems for crayfish — from mini-systems to industrial units adapted for crustaceans;
  • incubators for working with larvae — stable temperature, calm environment, controlled oxygen supply;
  • drum and bio-filtration-type filters, which ensure the ideal hydrochemical conditions described in the book’s chapters;
  • pools and tanks, optimised in terms of shape and depth and fitted with anti-cannibalism inserts — for both rearing and sorting.

Crawtec is the only manufacturer in Ukraine that not only produces crayfish farming equipment but also collaborates with the book’s authors. This means that our recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) and filters are not merely technically compatible but have been designed in accordance with the technologies described.

Who is this book for — and why should you order it today?

  • For investors — it will help you assess the project’s profitability before any initial expenditure.
  • For farmers — it opens up alternative areas of work, including year-round farming.
  • For agriculturalists — it will show you how to combine aquaculture with hydroponics and generate dual income.
  • For educational institutions — it will serve as a teaching guide to one of the most promising sectors of aquaculture.

If you want to set up a crayfish farm from scratch or convert your farm to a profitable model, the book ‘Australian Crayfish Farming Technology’ is exactly what you should read before making your first equipment purchase.

Summary: Crawtec and the book that helps launch successful farms

Success in crayfish farming begins not with water, but with the right knowledge. This is exactly what the book provides — from concept to sales, from the first small farm to a tonne of high-quality produce.

The Crawtec team will help you put this knowledge into practice — with tried-and-tested equipment, experience, support and a deep understanding of the biology of Cherax quadricarinatus.

Order the book now — and build your business on the experience of those who have already travelled this path.

Crawtec — state-of-the-art water treatment systems, filters, tanks, incubators and solutions for professional Australian crayfish farmers.