“Papua holds the greatest diversity of freshwater crayfish in the world, yet many species remain scientifically undescribed,” said Rury Eprilurahman.

“Our goal is to help establish a valid taxonomic foundation while promoting the protection of these increasingly vulnerable species,” he added.

New Species from Papua’s Hidden Rivers

The seven newly described species originate from various remote regions of West Papua:

1. Cherax veritas — Misool Island, Raja Ampat

2. Cherax arguni and Cherax kaimana — northern Kaimana district

3. Cherax nigli — southern Kaimana

4. Cherax bomberai — Fakfak

5. Cherax farhadii and Cherax doberai — Teluk Bintuni region

“These species can be clearly distinguished from each other, both morphologically and genetically,” the researchers wrote in their publication.

DNA Reveals Unique Lineages

To further validate their discoveries, the team performed mitochondrial DNA analyses using the 16S rRNA gene fragment.

Results revealed that the seven new species represent genetically distinct lineages, supporting their classification as separate species.

“This is crucial, as some species may look deceptively similar. Without molecular analysis, we risk misinterpreting their evolutionary relationships,” Eprilurahman explained.

By combining classical morphology with molecular systematics, the researchers ensured a scientifically sound and responsible approach to species identification.

Aquarium Trade as a Starting Point

Intriguingly, some of the initial specimens were obtained through the aquarium trade.

“Many of these species first appeared in the aquarium hobby market in Europe or Jakarta,” Rury noted.

“From there, we traced their origins and collaborated with local contacts in Papua to confirm the natural habitats.”

While not ideal, the aquarium trade occasionally provides an early clue to the existence of undescribed species.

Nevertheless, Rury emphasized that all field sampling and data collection were conducted ethically and following conservation permits.

Vital for Conservation Efforts

This discovery is significant not only for taxonomy but also for conservation.

West Papua is a global hotspot for freshwater biodiversity, yet its ecosystems face mounting threats from deforestation, mining activities, infrastructure development, and illegal wildlife trade.

By enhancing the region’s species inventory, the findings will contribute to more targeted and effective conservation planning.

“If we don’t even know which species are present, how can we protect them?” Rury asked.

“With this knowledge, we can push for more sustainable management of freshwater habitats.”

Much More Yet to Be Discovered

While seven new species have now been formally described, the researchers believe Papua’s Cherax diversity is still vastly underexplored.

“Papua is incredibly vast. There are countless rivers, lakes, and cave systems that remain unexplored,” Rury said.

“I’m confident we will continue to discover new species in the future.”

The same team has previously described other species, including:

• Cherax warsamsonicus (2017)
• Cherax alyciae and Cherax mosessalossa (2018)
• Cherax wagenknechtae (2022)
• Cherax rayko and Cherax phing (2024)

This highlights Papua’s status as a global hotspot for freshwater crayfish diversity.

Continuing the Legacy of Holthuis

Since Holthuis pioneered the study of the world’s freshwater crayfish in the mid-20th century, modern tools like Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) and advances in molecular systematics now offer unprecedented insights.

But fieldwork remains irreplaceable.

“There is no substitute for direct exploration in nature,” Rury emphasized.

“Papua still holds many mysteries, and we have only scratched the surface.”

Through a combination of field exploration, global collaboration, and rigorous science, today’s researchers — following in the footsteps of L.B. Holthuis — continue to unveil new chapters in our understanding of Indonesia’s extraordinary freshwater biodiversity.

Reference:

Lukhaup C., Eprilurahman R., von Rintelen T. (2025). Seven New Species of Crayfish of the Genus Cherax (Crustacea, Decapoda, Parastacidae) from Western New Guinea, Indonesia Arthropoda 3(2):10. https://www.mdpi.com/2813-3323/3/2/10

[Writer: Syefrina Rosyada]

1. Take aerial images with drone.
2. Identifying potential water bodies where mosquitoes breed.
3. Validating habitat maps.
4. Treating water bodies with larvicides.

Yogyakarta, 15th September 2024 – The Community Service Team Program Merdeka Belajar Kampus Merdeka (PkM MBKM) Faculty of Biology UGM held community empowerment activities at Sendari, Cebongan, Tirtoadi, Sleman. This activity was led by three lecturers from Faculty of Biology UGM such as Novita Yustinadiar, M.Sc., Woro Anindito Sri Tanjung, Ph.D., and Wahyu Aristyaning Putri, Ph.D., and also supported by 13 students. The program, titled, One Health : Introduction to Biopory Absorption Holes, is implemented with the aim to increase environmental awareness and encourage people to actively participate in preserving nature through simple solutions and big impacts.

The activity, which took place at the house of the Head of RT 03 Sendari, started at 14.00 until 16.00 WIB. This socialization focused on introducing the One Health Concept through the use of biopory absorption holes. Biopory plays an important role by helping to reduce waterlogging, improving soil quality and supporting ecosystem balance. Participants, which are members of PKK, are expected to understand the importance of biopory absorption holes as an environmentally friendly solution which is applicable in daily life.

The event began with remarks from Mrs. Priwanti as Head of Dukuh, followed by the socialization material from Wahyu Aristyaning Putri, S.Si., M.Sc., Ph.D., who explained the definition of biopory, the maintenance and the function for the environment. Mrs. Putri also shared her experience in using biopory at home and how the great benefits obtained. She emphasized that biopores are not only more efficient as water absorption but also increase soil fertility and prevent flooding in urban and rural areas. Continue with the presentation by the students of the material by highlighting the background information of the idea, working principles, how to make biopsy absorption holes, the ideal location for placing the biopores and various types of biopores that are applicable at home.

As part of the activity, participants were invited to directly demonstrate in the making of biopory absorption holes. They were divided into three groups where each group was given the tas of making one to two biopore holes around their house. After the demonstration was finished, the PkM-MBKM team gave assessments and awards to the group that showed the best result. Thus, the team also explained how to maintain the biopore so that the biopore will last in long term. Participants also were given guidance on materials that could be inserted into the hole, such as organic waste, which helps to catalyze the decomposition process and maintain the balance of the soil ecosystem.

The program to introduce biopore infiltration has strong relevance to several points in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). First, the biopory itself, helps achieve SDG number 6 which is Clean Water and Adequate Sanitation, by increasing water absorption into the soil and maintaining groundwater quality. Second, biopory supports SDG number 11, which is Sustainable Cities and Settlements, through green infrastructure that reduce the risk of flooding/ Third, biopory contributes to SDG number 13, which is Addressing Climate Change, by help to mitigate the impacts of climate change through better water and land management. Fourth, biopory support SDG number 15 which is Life on Land through increasing soil fertility and conserving soil biodiversity. Last, the application of biopory also relevant to SDG number 3 which is Healthy Lives and Well-being, since it helps to reduce the risk of standing water which may trigger disease.

All in all, the event closed with the distribution of door prizes and prizes for the winner of the Biopory competition. We al hoped that this activity will increase the community’s understanding of the importance of protecting the environment, as well as a real step at Sendari for a healthier and free of puddles of water. With One Health spirit, this program hopes that changes in people’s lifestyles as a positive impact, not only for people’s health but also the surrounding environment.