Family: Cambaridae
Distribution: The specific origin of Procambarus sp, or Marble Crayfish, is unknown, other than it is found in the United States. They first appeared in the German pet fish trade.
PH: 6.5 – 7.5
Temperature: 16 – 26°C (60 – 78°F)
Hardness: 9 – 13 dGH (but can withstand many levels of hardness)
Description: Procambarus sp. can grow up to 10 cm in length. It is of a light and dark brown colour, which gives it a mostly camouflaged appearance. This species can live up to three years if taken care of properly.
Diet: Marble Crayfish will feast upon plants and dead leaves. This species is also rather fond of flake and fish pellets.
Breeding: The most interesting part about Procambarus sp. is that there are no males: this is species made up entirely of females! Marble Crayfish breed through a process known as parthenogenesis: self-cloning. Other than this, breeding is as per usual. Procambarus sp. can produce a massive amount of age and will multiply at a rapid rate.
Comments: It is advised you keep Procambarus sp. in a tank size of about 100 litres. This species does not require special water conditions; it is extremely hardy and will do well in most aquarium environments as long as temperatures are not extreme. As such, this is a good species for beginners as not a lot of maintenance is required (and you won’t have the problem of working out which are male and which are female).
Article/Books:
Recommended Compatible Species: Procambarus sp. is a reasonably aggressive species, but can be housed with fish and shrimps alike.
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