Neon Red Crayfish

Cambarellus patzcuarensis var. Orange

Also known as Dwarf Orange Crayfish

Animalia›Arthropoda›Malacostraca›Decapoda›Cambaridae

The Neon Red Crayfish is a small, vibrant orange dwarf crayfish native to Mexico, prized for its striking coloration and peaceful demeanor compared to larger crayfish species. These invertebrates are excellent scavengers and detritivores, helping to clean the aquarium substrate while providing interesting bottom-dwelling activity. They are relatively hardy and suitable for intermediate aquarists willing to provide proper shelter and stable water conditions.

Where it's from

Recorded as introduced in Norway

The range of its wild species, Cambarellus patzcuarensis var. Orange.

At a glance

Size: 1.5 in; 4 cm
Min tank: 10 gal; 38 L
Temp: 64–75°F; 18–24°C
pH: 6.5-8.0
GH: 71–143 ppm; 4–8 dGH
Temperament: Semi-aggressive
Swims: Bottom
Lifespan: 3-5 yrs

Ammonia 0 ppm and nitrate under 20 ppm.

Care

Diet

Feed sinking pellets, algae wafers, blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach), and dried leaves. Supplement with protein-rich foods such as bloodworms or small shrimp pellets 2-3 times weekly. They will also consume biofilm and decaying plant matter naturally present in the tank.

Behavior

Neon Red Crayfish are primarily nocturnal and spend much of their time foraging along the substrate and hiding in caves or dense vegetation. They are solitary and territorial, though they may tolerate peaceful tank mates if the tank is large enough with adequate hiding spaces. They will molt periodically, becoming vulnerable during this time and requiring shelter.

Breeding

Breeding in the home aquarium is possible but challenging. Females produce eggs that are carried under the tail until they hatch into miniature crayfish. Breeding requires pristine water conditions and abundant food; fry are difficult to raise due to their small size and cannibalistic tendencies among siblings.

Tank mates

See all 6

Amano Shrimp

May prey on smaller shrimp; requires careful monitoring and ample space

caution

Otocinclus

Peaceful bottom-dweller; occupies similar niche but less aggressive

good

Ember Tetra

Small, fast-moving fish; unlikely to be caught by slow crayfish

good

Dwarf Hairgrass

Plant provides cover and foraging substrate without being consumed

good

Java Moss

Provides shelter, biofilm, and detritus for natural feeding

excellent

No state or federal restrictions on record.

Not legal advice, and possibly incomplete or out of date. Rules vary by state and change over time; check with your state wildlife or agriculture agency before buying, keeping or shipping it.

The care information here is written with AI help, so it can contain mistakes. Spot one? Tell us and we'll fix it. Native range: Global Register of Invasive and Introduced Species (CC BY 4.0).