CPO Dwarf Orange Crayfish

Cambarellus patzcuarensis sp. 'Orange', universally known in the hobby as the CPO, is a selectively bred colour form of the Patzcuaro Dwarf Crayfish from the Mexican Plateau. Reaching only 4 cm at most, it is one of the smallest crayfish available in the hobby and one of the very few that can be kept in planted nano aquaria without causing significant plant damage.

The CPO's vivid tangerine-orange colouration makes it one of the most visually striking invertebrates for small freshwater setups. It is an active and curious species that spends most of its time foraging over substrate and among plant roots. It is far less aggressive than larger crayfish and can sometimes be kept in groups in adequately sized tanks.

Breeding CPO is relatively straightforward: a male-female pair will produce small clutches of eggs that the female broods under her pleopods. Juveniles are fully formed miniature crayfish from the moment they release and can be fed powdered baby food or micro-worms.

Water: 18–27°C, pH 7.0–8.0, GH 5–15, KH 2–10; moderately hard water preferred; avoid extremes. Tank: minimum 30 L, fine substrate, caves, moss and robust plants tolerated; tight lid. Feeding: omnivore — nano sinking pellets, blanched spinach, algae wafers, occasional protein. Breeding: female broods 20–60 eggs; juveniles independent from hatching; remove adults after release. Compatibility: semi-peaceful — safe with small peaceful fish; may be predated by fish over 5 cm.