Dwarf Orange Mexican Crawfish (Cambarellus patzcuarensis)
Country of Origin: 🇺🇸USA
Background Information
The term Orange Mexican Dwarf Crayfish is used to describe a variety of species (Cambarellus), which are small and very peaceful crayfish. The Orange Dwarf Mexican Crayfish are selectively bred to have the orange color, and they are quickly becoming one of the more popular crayfish species to keep.
They are native to Mexico and some parts of the Southern United States, inhabiting streams and narrow rivers. However, they can also be found in various ponds and lakes of suitable water conditions of temperature 20-25°C and pH of 6.5-8.0.
They are much larger than your neo shrimp when fully grown and will tend to remain relatively small in the home aquarium reaching a maximum size of 2 inches (5cm) in length. They are pretty active and do not hide during the day like most crayfish, making them an exciting addition to any aquarium. On average, they live 2-3years in captivity.
Feeds
The Orange Dwarf Crayfish are omnivores. They will eat just about anything. To maintain a balanced diet, they should be fed a regular diet of high-quality sinking pellet along with live or frozen foods or vegetables.
Some examples of live foods they can be fed include; black worms, brine shrimp, and Gammarus. Their favorite vegetables are shelled peas, zucchini, and cucumber medallions.
Tank Mates
The Orange Mexican Dwarf Crayfish is very peaceful and is small enough not to threaten other tankmates. However, they have on occasion gone after dwarf shrimp, so it’s not a good idea to keep them in the same tank. When finding the appropriate tank mate, the rule of thumb is that if they can catch it, they can eat it since crayfish are opportunistic omnivore hunters. Get fihs that aren't in the same part of the water column. Fish like :
Neon Tetra, Platies, Swordtails, Chili Rasbora, Sparkling Gourami, Ember Tetra, and Hatchet fish are just some examples.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you take care of a Mexican Dwarf Crayfish?
They need ample clean and cool water of temperature 20-25°C and a pH of 6.5-8.0 with the appropriate diet of live and frozen foods and vegetables and a regular diet of a high-quality sinking pellet because they are omnivores.
Are Dwarf Mexican Crayfish aggressive?
Dwarf Orange Crayfish don’t display aggression at all except during short squabbles about territories within their species.
Do Dwarf Mexican Crayfish need a heater?
If your tank is placed indoors and appropriate temperatures are stable, then a heater is not necessary, but if this is not the case, then a heater is recommended to be sure.
DOA Policy
While this is a rare occurrence, it can and will happen from time to time. Fish are live animals and we cannot ensure that every one will arrive alive or remain alive. We do ask that if your fish arrives dead (DOA), submit a picture of the deceased fish that is in the bag within 2 hours of the delivery time of your fish. We will work quickly with you to resolve the problem.
We will offer replacement fish for any losses, but do not offer refunds at this time. We can replace fish but shipping costs is the responsibilityof the buyer. If you put the fish in your tank and it dies or is not acting properly, please contact us, with pictures,within 24 hours. We will again, do everything in our power to resolve the issue and ensure that you have a great experience with these fish.
Shipping Policy
Most Shipments will be UPS Next Day Air unless otherwise noted. Processing fish for your order can take up to 2 business days. This is to ensure your fish and healthy, happy, and ready to be put in your tank when it arrives. We ship fish on Mondays- Wednesday (excluding holidays) to ensure fish arrive before weekends. This allows us to completely prepare the fish for shipping and ensure they are healthy prior to arrive at your door. All fish will be shipped with oxygenated water and specific additives in the water to ensure they maintain their health and stability during shipment. Depending on the species of fish and current weather conditions, the fish may arrive with a heat pack or ice pack to maintain the optimal temperature which further ensures the health and safety of your fish. All costs of shipping (postage, packaging,heat/ice packs, etc.) are included in the Shipping fee. We ship to only the continental United States.
FAQ
"The fish I received do not look like the fish in thepicture. Why is this?"
- We typically take photographs of one or two fish when we initially get them in. Since we have a large quantity of most of the various species of fish, it would be understandably impossible to provide a picture ofevery individual fish with a specific species. For some of our more rare orlarger fish, the picture listed may be the actual fish that you are receiving.If this is the case, it will be designated by ?WYSIWYG?, meaning ?what you see,is what you get?.
"What happens if my fish arrive dead?"
- While this is a rare occurrence, it can and willhappen from time to time. Fish are live animals and we cannot ensure that everyone will arrive alive or remain alive. We do ask that if your fisharrives dead (DOA), submit a picture of the deceased fish that is in the bag.We will work quickly with you to resolve the problem. We will offer replacement fish for any losses, but do not offer refunds at this time. We will reship any replacement fish at the buyer's expense. If you put the fish in your tank and it dies or is not acting properly, please contact us, with pictures, within 24 hours. We will again, do everything in our power to resolvethe issue and ensure that you have a great experience with these fish.
"What if I'm not home when the fish arrive?"
- We will always provide you with a tracking number. While the fish are packaged to survive about 72+ hours within the shipping containers, we do ask that you make arrangements to arrive home to inspect your fish as soon as possible after they are delivered to your home. Itis always suggested to provide an area for the delivery person to place the boxthat is out of direct sunlight or extreme temperatures.
"What do I do with my fish once I've unpacked them?"
- Like you would with any new fish, let the entire bag float in your tank for 15-30 minutes. This allows the temperature withinthe bag to adjust to the same as your tank and will reduce temperature shock onthe fish. After this time, you can add all of the fish and water that is in thebag into your tank. The products used within the water for shipping will notharm any existing fish within your tank and actually makes the transition foryour new fish a bit easier. After this, expect your new fish to take a few daysto become fully adjusted, this includes hiding, floating at the top, sinking tothe bottom, and not eating. After a few days, your new fish should be acting aswimming like they normally would. At this point, enjoy your aquarium!
"I want to return my new fish because x,y,z?"
- Unfortunately, we are unable to accept returns.We do recommend contacting us via email with yourorder number and as much information as possible. We will try to assist you inresolving whatever the issue may be.