Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — A new species of crayfish has been identified in Papua, Indonesia, after being spotted among a shipment of crayfish intended for the pet trade. The species was discovered in the Muting District of Merauke, Papua, and later confirmed by scientists in Germany.
According to a report by the Herald Sun, the crayfish initially came from a Crayfish Farm in Jakarta and were shipped abroad. Scientists analyzing the shipment found an unusual specimen, prompting further investigation.
Researchers traced the crayfish to small creeks within the Bian River drainage basin near Muting village in Merauke. Local villagers reportedly collect these crayfish for the pet trade, keeping them in river cages before selling them to dealers who transport them to Jakarta and eventually to Europe.
Following identification through analysis of photos and a DNA sample sent from the region, Researchers in Germany have confirmed the discovery of a new crayfish species originating from the Muting District of Merauke, Papua, Indonesia.
The species was named Cherax rayko, after the son of study co-author Chris Lukhaup, who announced the discovery on December 21 via Facebook.
Distinctive Features
The Cherax found in Papua has a unique appearance that distinguishes it from other crayfish species. Its pincers range from white to cream, sometimes with bluish hues, while its head fades from blue to cream. Other body parts display orange to yellow tones, and its tail features dark green to blackish stripes accented with orange.
Male crayfish are slightly larger, measuring up to 4.8 inches (12.1 cm) compared to females at 3.8 inches (9.6 cm). Despite the size difference, both sexes share similar coloring.
Researchers noted that Cherax rayko belongs to a group of colorful crayfish widely traded as ornamental pets in Europe and Asia, where they are often marketed under names like “tiger” or “zebra” crayfish for their striped tails.
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The species thrives in shallow, slow-flowing creeks with muddy or sandy bottoms in the Bian River drainage system. It shelters under rocks, in debris, and in short burrows along riverbanks.
Scientific Recognition
According to Detik, the discovery of Cherax rayko has been documented in the journal Arthropoda (Volume 2, Issue 4) under the title Two New Species of Crayfish of the Genus Cherax (Crustacea, Decapoda, Parastacidae) from Western and Eastern Indonesian New Guinea. The study, published on December 20, 2024, was co-authored by Chris Lukhaup, Rury Eprilurahman, and Thomas von Rintelen.
This new crayfish species finding highlights the rich biodiversity of Papua river systems and underscores the importance of conservation efforts in the region, which continues to yield discoveries of new and unique species.
(Raidi/Agung)
