Ozark Crayfish Food

Adult Ozark crayfish (Orconectes ozarkae) range in size from 1 inch to just over 3 inches in length. This species occurs naturally throughout the Southern Ozarks in streams, creeks, rivers and ponds, where they hide beneath rocks, logs, fallen leaf litter and other debris. Like their lobster kin, crayfish tuck their tails beneath their bodies and escape predators by launching themselves backward.

  1. Crayfish Diet

    • Crayfish are opportunistic feeders, eating a wide range of foods. Crayfish eat vegetable matter, algae and live plants. They scavenge the bottom of their habitat for dead and dying insects, fish and even larger animals. Though small, a crayfish is adept at hunting and stalks its prey. Its best chance of a successful hunt is by sneaking up on resting fish and insects or waiting until one swims within reach. As the creature feeds, it uses its strong pincers to grasp struggling prey.

    Pet Crayfish

    • Like their wild kin, pet crayfish require a varied diet to thrive. A mixture of pureed whole fish, apples, spirulina, vegetables and calcium powder is a good base diet for captive crayfish. This mixture is blended into a slurry and then dehydrated for ease of storage. Tear small pieces off for feeding time. Healthy, small minnows such as mosquito fish (Gambusia affinis) will keep crayfish active and occupied. Large crayfish are dangerous in community tanks, because they prey on prized fish. Larger tank inhabitants often pick on small crayfish. Over time, crayfish can be taught to feed from their keepers' fingers.

    Crayfish Habitat

    • Crayfish live in tunnels along the banks of their waterways. Ozark crayfish prefer to live in areas with ample cover because they are part of many species' diets. Their water pH should be in the range of 7.5 to 8.5. Soft water can create weak exoskeletons and lead to the eventual death of the animal. Ozark crayfish do best in water temperatures ranging from 64 to 77 degrees, but can tolerate temperatures outside this range.

    Additional Crayfish Information

    • Crayfish are reddish-brown and sometimes sport darker striping. Small pepper-like specks sprinkle their pincers. As with other species, genetics, diet and habitat can influence their size and color. Crayfish grow by molting; they shed their hard outer shell and grow a new one. Juveniles molt frequently but adults may molt only a couple of times a year.