Red Swamp Crayfish

Procambarus clarkii

InvertebrateFreshwater

Procambarus clarkii can reach 15 cm. Its carapace is red with dark shades. It has large claws. It is territorial and aggressive. It digs burrows and may uproot plants. Omnivorous, it eats a variety of foods. Reproduction is oviparous, eggs carried under the abdomen. It can live 2 to 5 years. It adapts to a wide range of parameters.

Recommended parameters

ParameterRecommended range
Temperature20–28
pH6.5–8
GH5–15
KH3–10
NO₃≤ 20
PO₄≤ 0.5

Care

Difficulty1/5
Dietomnivore
Min. tank80 L
Min. group1
Adult size15 cm
Lifespan5 ans
Temperamentaggressive

Care notes

Temperature 20-28°C, pH 6.5-8.0, GH 5-15, KH 3-10. A minimum 80-liter tank is required. Diet: pellets, vegetables, proteins. Avoid bottom-dwelling fish or small fish. A lid is essential as it can escape. Many hiding places (pipes, rocks). Strong filtration. Weekly water changes. Keep nitrates < 20 mg/L.