Hang On Baby
Posted by Marilyn Bell on March 24, 2004
Q: Our pet crayfish recently "gave birth" to about 10 babies. The babies are hiding all over our 10 gallon tank, but it seems I am counting a few less than 10 these days. Does the mother eat them? (Please tell me she doesn't!) Should I be removing them from her tank at this time? (They seem too little to try to remove, but I want to make sure they survive!).
A: As long as there is enough food for your adult crayfish, I would think she will not eat her babies. Actually, adult crayfish are more vegetarians and prefer plant material to eat. Be sure you provide some greens (lettuce, spinach, any kinds of aquarium plants). Goldfish food has lots of plant material mixed in and this may be a good food to provide. Be sure you get the kind that sinks and also be sure not to feed more than can be eaten in a day.
I'll bet your baby crayfish are simply better at hiding and that's why you're not finding them all. I'd leave the babies there as it sounds as though your setup is a good one. Good luck!
John Wiessinger ( March 24, 2004)