Blue Crayfish

Common & Latin Name: Blue Crayfish / Red Clawed Crayfish / Blue Lobster (Cherax quadricarinatus)

Care level: Easy
Max Size: 20cm
Temp: 18-27°C
PH: 7.2 - 8.0
Approximate purchase size: 4-5cm
Diet: Omnivore
Compatibility: Species Only

The Blue Crayfish is a striking decapod from Australia and Papua New Guinea.

The Aquarium

The Aquarium should be reasonably large with alkaline conditions. Substrate should be fine sand or small grained gravel, with plenty of smooth rocks, driftwood and caves available for the cray to hide in and explore. Plants are not recommended for this species as they will most certainly be eaten and destroyed. A tight fitting lid is essential and any gaps should be plugged as crays are well known escape artists and expert climbers.

Behaviour

Blue Crayfish are predatory by nature, so they need to be kept in a species only tank with absolutely no fish. You can however keep more than one blue lobster in the same tank, provided that there is plenty of space and a lot of visual barriers. If space is insufficient or there aren't enough visual barriers, your crays will most likely fight over territory, which often leads to the loss of limbs.

Though Cherax quadricarinatus are not a burrowing species, it is worth noting that blue crays will rearrange the substrate to build better pits and caves for themselves. This should be taking into account when placing other decor to ensure that things don't fall, potentially breaking the glass.

Feeding

Food should be varied as this is an omivorous species. They will eat just about anything from courgettes to krill and even dry fish food. Both meaty and veggie foods should be provided regularly to keep your cray in good condition.

If you have any questions about keeping the Blue Crayfish, please contact us and a member of our friendly tropical team will be more than happy to advise you on best practice.

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