Brazos Dwarf Crayfish (Cambarellus texanus) Care Guide

One of the tiniest crayfish species in the hobby, reaching only 2-3 cm. Native to the Brazos River in Texas, it is peaceful enough for nano community tanks with small fish and shrimp.

Overview

Cambarellus texanus is a species in the family Cambaridae. One of the tiniest crayfish species in the hobby, reaching only 2-3 cm. Native to the Brazos River in Texas, it is peaceful enough for nano community tanks with small fish and shrimp. Its diminutive size and calm demeanor make it an ideal alternative to larger, more aggressive crayfish species.

Taxonomy

Family: Cambaridae
Genus: Cambarellus
Scientific name: Cambarellus texanus
Other names: Texas Dwarf Crayfish, Cambarellus texanus
Origin: North America, Texas

Habitat

Cambarellus texanus, a dwarf crayfish from streams and wetlands of Texas, United States. Far smaller and more peaceful than typical crayfish, it scavenges detritus and biofilm and is generally safe with small, fast tankmates.

Tank requirements

Minimum tank volume: 20 L
Temperature: 18-26 °C
pH: 6.5-8
GH: 4-15 °dGH
Water flow: low
Adult size: 2-3 cm
Lifespan: 1-2 years
Difficulty: beginner

Diet

Classified as omnivore. Recommended feeding frequency: 1x daily. In captivity, offer a varied diet appropriate to the species — quality prepared foods supplemented with frozen or live items of suitable size.

Compatibility

Temperament: peaceful
Position in tank: bottom
Compatible tank mates: Neon Tetra, Cherry Shrimp, Otocinclus, Corydoras
Avoid with: Large Crayfish, Large Cichlids, Large Fish

Breeding

Breeding strategy: egg-layer
Breeding difficulty: beginner