LAUSR

ABSTRACT Representative sampling of crayfish in streams is often impractical, especially in non-wadable habitats, or in areas with soft substrates. Whakaweku are artificial habitats made from bracken fern (Pteridium esculentum) that can be used successfully in a range of habitats. We compared whakaweku, minnow traps, fyke nets and electrofishing for sampling freshwater crayfish (kōura; Paranephrops planifrons) and bullies (toi toi; Gobiomorphus spp.) in two streams with differing stream characteristics and fish assemblages. Whakaweku captured a full-size range of kōura of both sexes, including small kōura (OCL 7–12 mm) that were not caught by minnow traps or fyke nets. Colonisation by kōura reached 90% of maximum after 2 weeks and CPUE was constant from 2 to 9 weeks. After 9 weeks, CPUE decreased due to decay of the fern fronds. Whakaweku are an effective sampling tool that are inexpensive, simple to set, and do not require expensive equipment or specialised training.