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Crayfish question


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#1 juhason

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Posted 25 November 2017 - 12:09 PM

I recently moved my crayfish from a 55 full of shiners and sunfish to a 10 gallon all by himself. I feel like he's so bored and lonely now. Do crayfish get lonely? Should I get him a buddy or put something else in the tank for some more stimulation... if so what could I put?

#2 Matt DeLaVega

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Posted 25 November 2017 - 05:08 PM

I really doubt that crayfish are capable of feeling lonely. I think your best bet is to provide a variety of plant matter, algae, and detritus to keep it occupied with foraging. I don't think adding additional fish or crayfish will improve it's quality of life. A day night cycle may help you feel better as well, really this is bothering you as it's keeper more than it is bothering the crayfish if you really think about it. Do whatever makes you feel like you are practicing good husbandry.


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#3 Matt DeLaVega

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Posted 25 November 2017 - 05:29 PM

Honestly after thinking more about this. Give him a larger tank and a smallmouth bass. That will simulate wild crayfish life much more closely. No hamster wheels for crayfish. The crayfish probably feels secure, or as close as it can with it's simple nervous system.


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#4 centrarchid

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Posted 25 November 2017 - 08:34 PM

I will be doing this shortly.  Structure and burrowing opportunites will be supplied.  Areas of stronger current will be used to direct floating eats down to where they crayfish can grab them.  Periodic feedings with freshly hatched BS will be enjoyed.  


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#5 JasonL

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Posted 25 November 2017 - 10:41 PM

To Matt's point, can a cray actually feel enjoyment? These are critical questions that need answers before this topic is further pursued.

#6 juhason

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Posted 25 November 2017 - 11:12 PM

Well I am a firm believer than ALL animals are way more capable than we give them credit for. Like how fish actually have complex social behaviors, communication and can recognize multiple faces. I don't see why a crayfish couldn't do the same. Also there was a study done on crayfish where they actually showed signs of stress and anxiety and scientists were able to use human drugs on them and they actually responded to the medication and became less stressed. I just want my crayfish to be as happy as he can be but all I have for him is a 10 gallon right now

#7 centrarchid

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Posted 26 November 2017 - 01:25 AM

At least some crayfish have discernible home ranges and know each other as individuals.  At least two species appear social at least during early life-stages in a manner that does not involve mother (this not in the literature as far as I can tell).  Some of the more terrestrial species are more social.

 

They can be trained.

 

Do not appear to have program option for affection.


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#8 juhason

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Posted 26 November 2017 - 11:54 AM

Oops I didn't mean that I don't see why crayfish couldn't be social, I just meant I don't see why they can't be capable of feeling things (such as boredom or loneliness). But that's interesting that some are a bit more social! I just want to keep his little tank a bit more interesting for him

#9 centrarchid

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Posted 26 November 2017 - 12:15 PM

I think they do have a social nature as well, especially when mating season is around.  My bet is a crayfish in isolation will start to move around more until it comes into a overlapping range with con-specifics.


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#10 Colorful0Giraffe

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Posted 26 November 2017 - 12:27 PM

I have a large crayfish in a tank by himself and he does seem to have alot of personality. Crayfish and sculpins are two of my all time favorite pets because of the interest and personality they display when you enter the room.

#11 lilyea

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Posted 27 November 2017 - 09:06 PM

From my observation crayfish like exploring so changing the aquascaping in both big and small ways will likely keep it active and engaged as long as the crayfish is in a place where it is comfortable.  Also remember their molting period so any type of predatory fish or fish that likes to pick may end up with an easy meal during that time.  Of course the more hiding places the better during that time if there are other inhabitants in the tank.  Even something as simple as adding leaves can provide great entertainment for both of you - good luck!



#12 juhason

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Posted 27 November 2017 - 10:51 PM

From my observation crayfish like exploring so changing the aquascaping in both big and small ways will likely keep it active and engaged as long as the crayfish is in a place where it is comfortable.  Also remember their molting period so any type of predatory fish or fish that likes to pick may end up with an easy meal during that time.  Of course the more hiding places the better during that time if there are other inhabitants in the tank.  Even something as simple as adding leaves can provide great entertainment for both of you - good luck!

Thank you very much!! i'll try gathering some oak leaves from the forest, i've always liked that look anyways :)




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