Crayfishes have been in aquariums for decades, yet they have not achieved the same level of popularity as tropical Fishes. In the 1980s, they were even marketed as “fortune Lobsters.” Even after the introduction of Procambarus clarkii with their diverse colors, their popularity has grown rather slowly. In fact, Dwarf Shrimps have become significantly more popular than Crayfishes for aquariums.
Then, the Australian Red Claw Crayfish (ARC) arrived in the Philippines. This particular species gained widespread awareness due to a massive social media push on its commercial marketability as a high-priced product with high demand and low supply.
I will not dwell much on the large-scale farm potential of the ARC. Instead, I will focus on the hands-on experience of keeping them as animal companions.
THINGS YOU MIGHT NOT KNOW ABOUT THE ARC
The Australian Red Claw Crayfish, scientifically known as Cherax quadricarinatus, are a species of freshwater Crayfish native to tropical Queensland and the Northern Territory of Australia, as well as Papua New Guinea.
COMMON NAMES
They are also known as Queensland Red Claw, Redclaw, Tropical Blue Crayfish, Freshwater Blueclaw Crayfish, or sometimes simply Blue Lobster.
SIZE
An ARC can grow up to 25 to 30 centimeters (10 to 12 inches) in length and can weigh up to 600 grams (21 ounces).
APPEARANCE
They are large-bodied Crayfishes, typically displaying a blue-green to green coloration with red and maroon accents.
Adult males are distinctly identifiable by a soft, fleshy, bright red patch on the outer margin of their major claws, which gives them their common name.
DIET
They are omnivorous detritivores. This means their natural diet primarily consists of decaying plant and animal matter, as well as small invertebrates and aquatic plants.
They readily accept commercial sinking food with high protein. I feed them Snails from my tanks, and they devour them.
CRAYFISH VERSUS CRAWFISH
Are Crayfishes and Crawfishes the same?
Yes, they are. The difference in terminology is primarily regional. “Crawfish” is more commonly used in the southern United States, particularly in Louisiana.
“Crayfish” is more widely used in other parts of the United States and in other English-speaking countries around the world, including Australia. You’ll also hear the term “Crawdad” in some areas, particularly in the Midwest and Western US.
CRAYFISH VERSUS LOBSTER
How about the terms Crayfish and Lobster?
While Crayfishes and Lobsters might look similar at first glance, they are not the same animal. Here are the key differences between them.
WHY CRAYFISHES MAKE GOOD ANIMAL COMPANIONS
THEY ENGAGE IN INTERESTING BEHAVIOR
Crayfish are active and curious. You’ll often see them exploring their tank, digging, rearranging the substrate, and interacting with their environment. Some individuals can even learn to recognize their owner.
THEY LOOK UNIQUE
They come in a surprising array of colors, including various shades of blue, red, orange, white, and even marbled patterns. Their intricate exoskeletons and prominent claws make them visually striking. These are the Clarkii type of Crayfishes.
THEY’RE HARDY ANIMALS
Many common companion species are quite robust and can tolerate a range of water conditions, making them more forgiving for beginners compared to many other delicate Fishes.
THEY LIVE LONG LIVES
Depending on the species, Crayfishes can live for 2 to 5 years, with some larger species living even longer.
IT’S EASY TO MAINTAIN THEIR HABITAT
While they do need a large tank to accommodate their size, the overall requirements are easy to set up and maintain. They don’t need intricate aquascaping or special lighting. The key is providing a secure lid (as they are known to climb) and plenty of hiding spots like PVC pipes or caves. A basic filter and a secure tank are often all you need.
