Dwarf Mexican Crayfish care guide
Dwarf Mexican Crayfish (Cambarellus patzcuarensis) — minimum tank 30 L, temperature 18-26 °C, pH 6.5-8.
Overview
The Dwarf Mexican Crayfish (Cambarellus patzcuarensis), commonly traded as the "CPO" or "Orange Dwarf Crayfish", is a small Central American crayfish whose orange selectively bred form is one of the most popular dwarf crayfish in the hobby. Adults rarely exceed 5 cm in total length.
Taxonomy
- Family: Cambaridae
- Genus: Cambarellus
- Scientific name: Cambarellus patzcuarensis
- Common synonyms: CPO Crayfish, Orange Dwarf Crayfish
Habitat
Native to Lake Pátzcuaro and surrounding waterways in the Mexican state of Michoacán, where it inhabits soft sediments under stones and among submerged vegetation. The wild population is restricted and considered endangered due to habitat degradation.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 30 L (7.9 US gal)
- Adult size: 3-5 cm
- Temperature: 18-26 °C (64-79 °F)
- pH: 6.5-8
- GH: 6-18 °dGH
- Water flow: low
- Lifespan: 2-3 years
Diet
An opportunistic omnivore feeding on detritus, biofilm, plant material, small invertebrates and carrion. In aquaria it accepts sinking crayfish or shrimp pellets, blanched vegetables, algae wafers and small portions of frozen bloodworm or brine shrimp.
Compatibility
One of the most peaceful crayfish species and largely compatible with most peaceful community fish that swim mid- and upper-water. Will occasionally pick at very slow or weak fish; not entirely safe with dwarf shrimp, as it may catch slow individuals. Multiple specimens can be kept together with abundant cover.
Breeding
A direct freshwater breeder. Females carry eggs and then miniature juveniles under the abdomen for several weeks; juveniles disperse into cover and begin feeding immediately. The species reproduces readily in well-decorated tanks with stable parameters.
Conservation status
IUCN Red List: Endangered. Wild populations in Lake Pátzcuaro have declined severely; most aquarium specimens originate from captive lines that have been bred for the trade for many generations.