Broadhand Crayfish

Cambarus latimanus, the Broadhand or Sculpted Crayfish, is found in flowing streams and rivers of the southeastern United States and is easily recognised by its distinctively broad, flat chelae that resemble paddles — an adaptation for its stream habitat. Body colouration is a rich brown-olive with subtle green iridescence in certain lighting conditions.

In the aquarium, this species does best in setups that replicate its native habitat: smooth stones, coarse gravel, and a moderate current from the filtration outlet. It is an active and inquisitive species that thrives in tanks with ample hiding spots. Like most Cambarus, it is best kept alone as males are highly territorial.

C. latimanus is an excellent candidate for keepers interested in North American stream biotope aquaria and pairs well thematically with native North American darter fish, though these fish must be kept safely away from the crayfish's reach.

Water: 15–24°C, pH 6.8–7.8, GH 5–15, KH 2–10; cool, well-oxygenated stream water preferred. Tank: minimum 80 L, smooth cobble, moderate current, caves and crevices; avoid plants. Feeding: omnivore — sinking stream-bed pellets, blanched greens, invertebrate protein occasionally. Breeding: seasonal breeding; pair briefly; female broods under pleopods then separate again. Compatibility: aggressive — solo specimen only; fast upper-column fish compatible if large enough.