Pulcher Crayfish

The pulcher crayfish (Cherax pulcher) is a New Guinea crayfish known for its patterned shell in blue, cream and peach tones, and for the size and presence of its claws. It is an engaging animal to keep — crayfish are inquisitive, they rearrange the tank to suit themselves, and they interact with a keeper far more than most invertebrates. It is also a predator, and it should be stocked with that in mind.

Aquarium care

• A large crayfish; adults are a substantial animal and need a tank sized accordingly.
• Territorial. One per tank unless the aquarium is very large and heavily broken up with caves.
• Will catch and eat slow, small or sleeping fish, and will take shrimp and snails.
• Digs, uproots plants and moves hardscape around.
• Needs multiple caves or lengths of pipe, and a securely covered tank — crayfish climb out.
• Requires calcium in the water for hard, clean moults, and complete quiet while moulting.

Best kept as a single specimen in a species tank, or with fast mid-water fish that stay well clear of the bottom. Crayfish must never be released into local waterways, ponds or storm drains, and rules on keeping live crayfish differ by province — check what applies to you before buying.

Stock rotates with each shipment, and livestock is available for local pickup at our Lethbridge store. See the crayfish and lobster collection.