How to Care for a Hawaiian Crayfish

Red swamp crayfish, or Hawaiian crayfish, are commonly found around the fresh waters of Hawaii, as well as along the shores of Oahu. After being introduced to Hawaii in 1940, red swamp crayfish's population exploded and soon they became serious pests to local farmers. While Hawaiian crayfish are not a welcome sight to farmers, Hawaiian crayfish make an interesting pet. With a lifespan of two to three years, crayfish are hearty pets that can be kept in an ordinary home aquarium.

Things You'll Need

  • 10-gallon aquarium
  • Sand
  • Small rocks
  • Fish tank caves
  • Liquid calcium
  • Fruit and vegetables
  • Fish food
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Instructions

    • 1

      Fill up a 10-gallon fish tank with fresh water and place sand or small rocks in the bottom.

    • 2

      Create hiding places at the bottom of the tank with items, such as tank caves.

    • 3

      Place your Hawaiian crayfish in the aquarium and make sure there are no ways for the crayfish to climb out. Aquarium tops must be free of any holes.

    • 4

      Drop in two drops of liquid calcium every other day to provide calcium to your crayfish so it can grow a new exoskeleton after molting.

    • 5

      Feed your crayfish fish food every day. Treat your crayfish with fruits and vegetables. Crayfish love to get lettuce leaves, sweet potato chunks, carrots and spinach leaves.