all the freshwater crayfish species of the South West, recognised as having a high degree of importance due to the long-term isolation of the bioregion. However, protection of the two endemic genera is usually focused on the commercial species. Few studies have been made to the specific threat. The region has undergone extensive logging and intensive cultivation which are known to have impacted upon the water tables and courses. The species is sensitive to pollutants such as petroleum products and organochlorines and is known to accumulate heavy metals. The species is assumed to have an integral role, through the consumption of decaying organic matter, in the ecology of its region and contributing to the biodiversity. High sensitivity to toxins and pollutants has been seen as an indicator of the presence of these within a habitat. Some populations have been exposed to porcelain disease (Thelohania) and the introduction of crayfish diseases threaten entire populations. The gilgie is used in permaculture gardens in Western Australia. They enable ponds and pools to be self-sustaining. See also Cherax destructor – common yabby Cherax quadricarinatus – Australian red claw crayfish Cherax tenuimanus – Margaret River marron or hairy marron References External links Cherax quadricarinatus, Tree of Life Web Project Recreational fishing .gov.au Cherax tenuimanus-listing Standard Fish Names in Australia (commercial species) Yabby: Cherax spp. except C. quadricarinatus, C. cainii & C. tenuimanus, Parastacidae (freshwater crayfish, yabbies) inconclusive. Chapt. 5.3.5 (about Marroning) Parastacidae Freshwater crustaceans of Australia Crustaceans described in 1845 Taxa named by John Edward Gray Endemic fauna of Southwest Australia Edible crustaceans