Description
Dwarf Orange Mexican Crayfish (Cambarellus patzcuarensis sp. Orange – CPO)
📌 Basic Info
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Scientific Name: Cambarellus patzcuarensis sp. “Orange”
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Common Names: Dwarf Orange Crayfish, 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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Brilliant bright orange body, stands out vividly in aquariums.
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One of the most popular dwarf crayfish due to its small size and peaceful temperament.
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Less aggressive than larger crayfish, but still semi-territorial.
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Very active, often exploring or foraging instead of hiding.
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Can molt and regenerate lost limbs.
🍽️ Food
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Type: Omnivorous scavenger.
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Diet: Algae wafers, sinking pellets, blanched vegetables (zucchini, spinach, cucumber), frozen/live foods (bloodworms, brine shrimp, shrimp pellets).
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Feeding Schedule: Once daily in small amounts; remove uneaten food.
🛠️ Tank Setup & Maintenance
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Tank Size: Minimum 10 gallons (for 1–2 crayfish).
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Filtration: Gentle but effective; avoid strong currents.
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Decor: Hiding places are essential – rocks, caves, driftwood, PVC pipes, plants.
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Substrate: Fine gravel or sand; they dig occasionally.
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Water Changes: 20–25% weekly.
👥 Social Behavior
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Peaceful for a crayfish species; can live in community aquariums.
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Can be kept singly or in small groups (ensure hiding spots to reduce territorial disputes).
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May sometimes nip at very slow or sleeping fish, but generally safe with fast and peaceful species.
✅ Do’s
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Provide multiple shelters to reduce aggression when keeping more than one.
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Use a tight-fitting lid (can escape if given a chance).
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Maintain stable, clean water with good oxygen levels.
❌ Don’ts
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Don’t house with large or aggressive fish (cichlids, bettas, etc.).
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Don’t overcrowd – stress and fighting will occur.
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Avoid copper-based medications (toxic to crayfish).
⭐ Quick Tips
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Compact size and bright orange color make them a fantastic choice for nano and community aquariums.
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Much safer for live plants compared to larger crayfish.
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Hardy, peaceful, and interesting to watch – ideal for beginners and experienced keepers alike.
