Southeast Queensland has one of the highest diversity of crayfish worldwide, however, many of our endemic crayfish species such as the Mount Glorious spiny crayfish Euastacus setosus and swamp crayfish Cherax robustus are under threat due to habitat loss and degradation.
These species have evolved over millions of years to survive in atypical freshwater environments, but their populations are declining rapidly as a result of human impact. Our ecosystems rely on crayfish as bioturbators, detritovores and apex predators, and are at risk of devastating cascading effects if we fail to protect these species.
The next speaker at Noosa Parks Associations, Friday Forum on 26 May is Grace Smith, a PhD candidate from the Ventura Lab at the University of the Sunshine Coast.
As a researcher, Grace uses environmental DNA (eDNA) to monitor crayfish distribution and identify potential threats to their survival. Through her research, she aims to increase awareness of the importance of conserving these species and their habitats.
At the Friday Forum, Grace will discuss the evolution of the Euastacus and Cherax genera and provide insights into the current threats to these crayfish species, as well as discuss the applications of eDNA technology to other species and some of the more general research occurring in these unique habitats.
Everyone is welcome at the NPA Environment Centre, 5 Wallace Drive, Noosaville. The forum starts at 10.30am and morning tea is available at 10-10.25am. Entry is $5 by tap and go at the door which includes morning tea/coffee.
Join the bird observers at 8.30am in the carpark for interpretive birding.
For more information visit noosaparks.org.au
