Blue Moon Snake Crayfish - Cherax Sp.

Blue Moon Snake crayfish - Cherax sp.

The Blue Moon Snake crayfish (Cherax sp.) is known for its impressive blue-black base coloration and the special snakeskin effect on its carapace. These fascinating crayfish originate from Papua New Guinea and can reach a body size of 12-15 cm. The Blue Moon Snake crayfish is a rather peaceful aquarium inhabitant and very long-lived if kept well.

We offer you the following options when selecting our crayfish:

• Gender selection: Choose between a male or a female, depending on what you need for your aquarium.
• Pair: One male and one female, ideal for observing natural behavior or starting a breeding program.
• Breeding group: Consists of one male and two females, ideal for more effective breeding and interesting social dynamics in the aquarium.

Keeping and care

An aquarium of 80 liters or more offers sufficient space for the Blue Moon Snake crayfish. A structured setup with lots of hiding places, such as stones, roots and clay tubes, is ideal, as the crayfish likes to use retreats. As it occasionally digs, structures should be stable to prevent them from tipping over.

Water values and temperature

The optimum water conditions for the Blue Moon Snake crayfish are temperatures of 20 to 24 °C and a pH value between 6.5 and 7.5. The water hardness should be between 5 and 15 °dGH, and regular water changes ensure a healthy environment.

Socialization

The Blue Moon Snake crayfish is a peaceful tankmate that can be kept with dwarf shrimps and small, peaceful fish. Larger, aggressive species or bottom-dwelling fish are less suitable as this can lead to conflicts. As a rule, this crayfish leaves plants alone and is therefore also suitable for planted tanks.

Breeding

Breeding the Blue Moon Snake crayfish is usually easy in the aquarium. After mating, females carry up to 50 eggs under their abdomen, from which the young hatch after around 7-9 weeks. It is important for the young crayfish to have plenty of hiding places to minimize the risk of cannibalism.

Diet

The Blue Moon Snake crayfish is an omnivore and prefers a varied diet. In addition to special crayfish food, it likes fresh vegetables such as spinach and nettle and occasionally frozen food. Dried leaves support a natural diet and promote well-being.