The Tricolor Red Crayfish (Cherax boesemani) stands out as a rare color variant of the Supernova, also known as the Papua Red Marble Crayfish. It represents a stunning and unique deviation within its species and is indigenous to West Papua, New Guinea. Despite the common nickname "Tricolor Red Lobster," it's important to note that true lobsters do not inhabit freshwater environments.
Breeding the Tricolor Red Crayfish within an aquarium is relatively straightforward, although their fry exhibit exceptionally slow growth. In fact, many of our specimens have successfully reproduced in our facility!
This particular crayfish showcases an active nature, often exploring the aquarium floor in search of nourishment. As an omnivorous scavenger, it readily consumes a wide variety of meaty and plant-based foods. It's crucial to provide an adult Tricolor Red Crayfish with a diet that's rich in plant matter. However, it's advisable to avoid housing this crayfish with ornamental live plants, as it tends to consume them at a surprising rate. Given their adept climbing abilities, precautions must be taken to prevent their escape from the enclosure.
As the Tricolor Red Crayfish matures, it can develop territorial tendencies, potentially displaying aggression toward other tank inhabitants. To promote harmonious coexistence, it's essential to provide ample hiding spots, such as rock formations, driftwood, or PVC pipes. This becomes even more critical when housing multiple crayfish in the same tank. Due to their size and waste production, a minimum 30-gallon, well-filtered aquarium is a necessity for a single adult. Larger tanks, such as 55 gallons or more, are suitable for accommodating multiple adults of similar size. While this species is reasonably hardy, regular water changes are vital for maintaining optimal health.
It's advisable to avoid keeping other bottom-dwelling invertebrates and fish with large crayfish. However, mid- and upper-level, fast-swimming fish can coexist with the Tricolor Red Crayfish, although it's important to remember that crayfish are opportunistic feeders and will consume any smaller tank mates they can catch.
