Oceanian crayfishes, often referred to as freshwater crayfish or "yabbies" in some regions, are a diverse group of crustaceans native to the freshwater rivers, lakes, and streams of Oceania, particularly Australia, Papua New Guinea, and New Zealand. The most notable species include the Australian redclaw crayfish (*Cherax quadricarinatus*), the common yabby (*Cherax destructor*), and the giant Tasmanian crayfish (*Astacopsis gouldi*). These species are highly valued both for local consumption and export, with Australia being the leading country in their commercial harvest and aquaculture production. The fishing industry for crayfish in Oceania is a mix of wild capture and increasingly sophisticated aquaculture operations, especially in Australia and Papua New Guinea, where they are farmed for food markets in Asia and beyond. While New Zealand also harvests its native crayfish, such as the kōura (*Paranephrops* spp.), the scale is smaller and often focused on local and specialty markets. These countries have developed regulations and management practices to ensure sustainable harvests, given the ecological importance and commercial value of these unique crustaceans.
| Rank | Country | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Papua New Guinea | 1 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.