Crayfish Habitat for an Aquarium

Crayfish are small freshwater crustaceans. There are hundreds of different crayfish, or crawfish, species found all over the world, and many of these species can be kept as pets. They are sought after because of their unusual appearance, which is something like a cross between a lobster and shrimp and their coloring, which can include browns, reds, yellows, blues, and many different patterns. Crayfish also have fascinating personalities that make them entertaining to observe.

  1. Aquarium Size

    • Crayfish are very active, and therefore need a large area to call their own. A single crayfish should be kept in an aquarium that's 10 gallons or larger in size. The water can be either deep or shallow, as long as the crayfish has a large surface area on which to roam about. Whatever aquarium you choose, make sure it has a secure lid with no holes. Crayfish are known to climb out of their habitats.

    Water Needs

    • Each crayfish species comes from a slightly different environment, and will require slightly different water needs. When you're setting up a habitat for a crayfish, research the specific species you have to find out what pH level and temperature your crayfish will be most comfortable with. You may need an aquarium cooling or heating system in order to keep the water temperature correct. You may also need to use water additives to adjust the pH level. Use a dechlorinator, purchase spring water, or let the water sit overnight before adding the water to the aquarium. Add about two drops of a liquid calcium to the aquarium for every 10 gallons of water, every other day. This keeps the crayfish's exoskeleton healthy.

    Filtration and Aeration

    • Install a filtration system in the crayfish habitat. The filter will help keep the aquarium clean. This filtration system should be designed for the specific size of your aquarium. Choose a filter with a small intake, through which the crayfish cannot be sucked up. Many filter systems also aerate the water. However, if your filter does not perform this function, install an aeration system, designed for the specific size of your aquarium.

    Substrate and Decorations

    • Add a thick layer or sand or fine gravel substrate to the bottom of the aquarium. Crayfish like to dig in the substrate. Add hiding places for the crayfish. These could be things like pieces of PVC pipe, aquarium decorations, overturned flowerpots, and fake aquarium plants. Real aquarium plants can also be used, but the crayfish will most likely eat them.

    Aquarium Mates

    • Crayfish are extremely territorial. They are also excellent hunters. For this reason, it's often best to keep crayfish in an aquarium by themselves. Most fish in the aquarium will become prey for the crayfish. Other larger fish may attack the crayfish. Crayfish can occasionally be kept together with other crayfish, but a very large aquarium will be needed to give each crayfish enough space. When keeping more than one crayfish together, keep only the same species, as crayfish will attack different species.