Description
The "CPO" is an orange colour form of Cambarellus patzcuarensis, a small crayfish from Lake Pátzcuaro in the highlands of the Mexican state of Michoacán.
It has no particular requirements regarding water parameters. Cambarellus patzcuarensis "Orange" often hides among dense plants, but readily emerges from its hiding place at feeding time (ordinary fish food is sufficient).
Care must be taken not to keep the stocking density too high, as this can lead to cannibalism; hiding places such as clay tubes or bricks are also highly recommended. The crayfish also need such hiding places so that they can moult undisturbed, because during this period—like other crustaceans—they are very vulnerable due to their still-soft exoskeleton.
With this crayfish, it is even more important than with others to ensure that the ratio of males to females is appropriate. A ratio of 1:2 is already a good starting point, while 1:3 is very good. If individual crayfish are missing claws, this is an indication that the ratio has not been chosen well or that there are too many animals in the tank. Up to 7 crayfish can be kept in a 54-litre aquarium.
If sufficient food is available, Cambarellus patzcuarensis "Orange" rarely or never attacks shrimp. All in all, it is a peaceful aquarium inhabitant.