GHOST CRAYFISH (Procambarus clarkii .sp)

The buzz surrounding this crayfish is due to its incredible red, white, and blue coloration.  All three colors are always included on each and every Ghost Crayfish!  The top of the crayfish is usually a dark, midnight blue.  The head and tip of the tail are scarlet red, while the belly, tail, and legs are milky white with some red highlights.  The claws are typically red, although they are sometimes a mix of white and red.  Juvenile specimens are mostly white and have not yet reached their full color potential, but the red and blue colors will appear and greatly intensify with each molt as the crayfish matures over the course of 2 to 6 months. 

 

Though most crayfish are often reclusive by nature, this particular crayfish is very active by comparison and spends plenty of time exploring the floor of the aquarium in search of food.  The Ghost Crayfish is an omnivorous scavenger and will eat most any meaty or plant-based foods.  This crayfish should not be kept with ornamental live plants as it will eat them at a surprising rate.

 

As it reaches adulthood, the Ghost Crayfish will become relatively territorial, so it may behave aggressively towards other animals in the tank.  It is important that ample hiding places such as rockwork, driftwood, or PVC pipes be provided.  This is even more crucial when housing multiple crayfish in the same tank.  Due to the size and waste production of this crayfish, a minimum 30-gallon, well-filtered aquarium is necessary for one adult.  A larger aquarium can house multiple adults of similar size.  This is a very hardy animal, but regular water changes are vital to its optimal health.  Other bottom-dwelling invertebrates and fish should not be kept with large crayfish.  It is possible to keep mid- and upper-level, fast-swimming fish with the Ghost Crayfish, but crayfish are opportunistic feeders and will generally eat whatever they can catch.