An assessment of the Caroline Creek freshwater crayfish reserve in northern Tasmania

A preliminary investigation of the Caroline Creek freshwater crayfish reserve was conducted over a threeday period in 1987. Data are presented to show that the population numbers of Aslacopsis gouldi, for which the reserve was gazetted, are low and that large and mature animals were not found. The presence of numerous bait lines throughout the reserve shows that illegal fishing has occurred and is continuing, and suggests that management practices reserve have been inappropriate. The need for effective reserves for A. gouldi is discussed.