Cherax quadricarinatus

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[edit] Alternative names

See also: Blue Crayfish

Redclaw Crayfish, Blue Lobster, Blue Crayfish, Blue Yabby, Electric Blue Lobster, Electric Blue Crayfish, North Queensland Yabby, Blue Lobster

[edit] Sexing

The adult male gets a distinctive red patch on his claws, this is absent on females.

[edit] Tank compatibility

They are a bottom feeder and will eat anything they come across, as they are opportunistic eaters. It is not advisable to keep this species in the same aquarium as aquatic frogs or snails, as these are easy prey for this species. The Redclaw Crayfish should only be keep with large or fast moving fish as small and slow fish are likely to become prey.

[edit] Diet

Omnivorous.

[edit] Feeding regime

These Lobsters are omnivorous, and will act as a scavenger in the aquarium, eating any food that comes to rest on the bottom. Supplement their diet with a quality sinking pellet, flake food and dried algae.

[edit] Environment Specifics

Plenty of cover should be included in the aquarium, including both rocks and plants. The crayfish's Shell/exoskeleton will corrode in acidic conditions, eventually leading to animal's death.

If the exuvia (shed exoskeleton) is removed from the tank after shedding, the crayfish will likely die as this shed will be consumed for vital calcium.

[edit] Behaviour

They are known to burrow, so a fine substrate such as sand is ideal. They are territorial towards others of the same species. A larger aquarium will be needed if housing more than one. Provide at least 80L (21.1 US G.) per Lobster and include plenty of cover including both rocks and plants.

[edit] Identification

Generally they are a brilliant blue. The blue intensifies as the crayfish matures. Because of their selective breeding in the hobby, they will not loose their coloration, except in times of stress. They may show a brown coloration due to stress, but will eventually regain their bright blue coloration. They stay relatively small in the aquarium, only attaining a total length of 5" (12.7cm).

[edit] Pictures

[edit] External links

• Practical Fishkeeping
• Snail Shop
• Wikipedia