How to Create a Simple Habitat for Crayfish

Crayfish, also known as freshwater lobsters, normally are straightforward to care for in an aquarium, provided you have only one. The exact habitat and care a crayfish requires depends upon the species, but they all need a well-oxygenated freshwater tank with plenty of hiding places. Most crayfish also appreciate the opportunity to burrow. Because crayfish eat practically anything they can find, or catch, it is not a good idea to introduce one to an aquarium that already contains small fish or invertebrates. The crayfish may well view these animals as dinner. Instead, create a habitat specifically for the crayfish.

Things You'll Need

  • 10-gallon or larger tank with light
  • Gravel or aquarium sand
  • Filter
  • Rocks
  • Aquatic plants
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Instructions

    • 1

      Lay several inches of fine gravel or sand in the tank. Crayfish burrow to escape from predators. Providing the opportunity for this behavior reduces stress to the animal.

    • 2

      Install a basic aquarium filter run by an air pump. Some species of crayfish also require a heater.

    • 3

      Arrange rocks to provide hiding places.

    • 4

      Fill the tank with tap water and allow it to settle for 24 hours. This allows chlorine to dissipate. In future to dechlorinate tap water for water changes, either let the water sit in buckets for a day or use a commercial dechlorinator, available from aquarium supply stores.

    • 5

      Introduce aquatic plants, especially tough, fast-growing varieties, such as floating hornwort. Crayfish are likely to eat some of the plants so resilient plants are the best choice, especially floating types.

    • 6

      Let the tank cycle for about a week before introducing your crayfish.