Mexican Dwarf Orange Crayfish

THIS CRAYFISH IS NOT ALLOWED IN THE FOLLOWING STATES, PLEASE DO NOT ORDER IF YOU LIVE IN ONE OF THESE STATES

• Wisconsin, United States
• Missouri, United States

Remarks: Mexican Dwarf Orange Crayfish are also commonly known as CPO's due to their bright orange color and scientific name, Cambarellus patzcuarenis 'Orange.' They are mainly found in Mexico but can also be found in certain parts of the southern United States. Despite their small size, this species is surprisingly curious and brave making it very entertaining to observe.

 While crayfish may seem to just be scavengers, they are also opportunistic predators. If a fish or another invertebrate that are small enough get close enough or the crayfish manages to sneak up on them, it will attack and attempt to eat them. These attacks usually occur at night so while things may seem fine during the day, other tank inhabitants could be getting harassed at night. If a fish is too large for this small species to attack, there is a very high likelihood it will be the one harassing the crayfish.

  Plants should only be included in their tanks if you are okay with them possibly being eaten as the crayfish may see them as food. This species seems to be less damaging to plants compared to other, larger crayfish, but there is no guarantee it will be plant safe. Furthermore, crayfish must frequently molt their exoskeleton leaving them soft and vulnerable for a short period of time while the new exoskeleton hardens. For this reason, mineral sources such as shells and mineral stones along with plenty of hiding spaces should be provided to protect them from being attacked by fish or other invertebrates and to help form their new shell. Because of their aggressive demeanor and occasional vulnerability, crayfish are best kept alone. 

B-Grade Crayfish are missing a claw or leg(s). These grow back with time!