Description
Dwarf Blue Mexican Crayfish (Cambarellus patzcuarensis sp. Blue)
📌 Basic Info
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Scientific Name: Cambarellus patzcuarensis sp. “Blue”
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Common Names: Dwarf Blue Crayfish, Blue CPO
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Family: Cambaridae
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Origin: Mexico (Lake Pátzcuaro region)
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Size: 1.5 – 2 inches (4 – 5 cm)
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Lifespan: 2 – 3 years
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Tank Zone: Bottom dweller
🌊 Water Parameters
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TDS: 150 – 250 ppm
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pH: 6.5 – 7.8
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Temperature: 20 – 26°C (68 – 79°F)
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Hardness: 6 – 12 dGH
🦞 Characteristics
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Striking bright blue coloration, sometimes with orange highlights.
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Smallest crayfish species commonly kept in aquariums.
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Much more peaceful than larger crayfish; less destructive to plants.
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Active and curious, often seen walking around instead of hiding all the time.
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Can regenerate lost limbs after molting.
🍽️ Food
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Type: Omnivorous scavenger.
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Diet: Sinking pellets, algae wafers, blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach, cucumber), occasional protein foods (bloodworms, shrimp pellets).
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Feeding Schedule: Once daily in small amounts; remove uneaten food to avoid fouling water.
🛠️ Tank Setup & Maintenance
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Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons (for 1–2 crayfish).
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Filtration: Gentle but efficient; they prefer stable, clean water.
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Decor: Provide hiding spots with caves, rocks, PVC pipes, and plants.
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Substrate: Sand or fine gravel; they like to dig.
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Water Changes: 20–25% weekly.
👥 Social Behavior
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Generally peaceful for a crayfish species.
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Can be kept singly or in small groups if enough hiding places are provided.
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May occasionally nip slow or sleeping fish but usually safe with peaceful community tank mates.
✅ Do’s
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Provide multiple caves/hiding spots, especially if keeping more than one.
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Ensure tight lid – they can climb and escape.
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Keep stable water conditions; sensitive to ammonia/nitrite.
❌ Don’ts
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Don’t house with large aggressive fish (they may attack or eat the crayfish).
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Don’t overcrowd – can lead to territorial fights.
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Don’t keep in tanks with strong currents or poor oxygenation.
⭐ Quick Tips
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A beautiful, hardy, and relatively peaceful dwarf crayfish perfect for nano and community aquariums.
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Safer with live plants than larger crayfish.
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Their bright blue color makes them a centerpiece in any small tank.
