- Food: Yabbies are a popular delicacy in many parts of the world, and they are caught for consumption in both recreational and commercial fishing. Their meat is considered succulent and flavorful, and they are often used in dishes such as soups, stews, and pasta.
- Bait: Yabbies can also be used as bait for catching other fish, as they are known to attract larger predators such as bass and trout. Live yabbies are commonly used as bait for fishing in freshwater ecosystems.
- Population Control: In some cases, yabbies can overpopulate bodies of water, leading to an imbalance in the ecosystem and competition with other native species. As a result, yabbies may be intentionally killed to control their population and preserve biodiversity in specific areas.
- Research: Yabbies might also be killed for scientific research purposes, contributing to studies in environmental science, physiology, and ecology. They can provide insights into aquatic ecosystems, water quality, and species behavior.
It's important to note that regulations and laws governing the capture and killing of yabbies can vary across regions, and local permits or licenses might be required for fishing or collecting them. Adhering to these regulations is crucial to protect yabby populations and maintain the balance of freshwater ecosystems.