Cherax Boesemani Tricolor Crayfish (Cherax Boesemani)

Cherax Boesemani Tricolor Crayfish (Cherax boesemani)

The Cherax Boesemani Tricolor Crayfish is a stunning and highly sought-after freshwater invertebrate, prized for its vibrant mix of colors and bold personality. Native to West Papua, Indonesia, this species displays an incredible blend of electric blue claws, orange to red highlights, and darker body tones—creating a true tricolor effect that stands out in any aquarium.

Each specimen develops its own unique coloration as it matures, with males typically showing more intense colors and larger, more pronounced claws. Active, curious, and highly interactive, this crayfish quickly becomes a centerpiece animal with both visual impact and engaging behavior.

While beautiful, they are also opportunistic and territorial, requiring careful planning when it comes to tank setup and tank mates.

Care & Husbandry

Tank Size:
A minimum of 20 gallons is recommended for a single crayfish, though 30+ gallons is preferred for long-term care. Provide plenty of hiding spots using rocks, driftwood, and caves to reduce stress and territorial behavior.

Diet:
Omnivorous scavenger with a strong appetite:

• High-quality sinking pellets (staple diet)
• Vegetables such as zucchini, spinach, peas, and carrots
• Protein sources like shrimp, fish, bloodworms, and pellets
• Occasional treats like snails or frozen foods

Feed once daily or every other day, removing uneaten food to maintain water quality.

Tank Mates:
Use caution—this species can be aggressive:

• Best Kept Alone for safety and longevity
• Possible: Fast-moving fish (danios, larger tetras) in larger tanks, but risk remains
• Avoid: Slow fish, bottom dwellers, shrimp, snails, and other crayfish

Anything that can be caught may be eaten.

Water Parameters:

• Temperature: 72–78°F
• pH: 6.5–8.0
• Water Hardness: Moderate to hard (important for molting)
• Clean, well-oxygenated water is essential
• Provide stable conditions to support healthy molts

Additional Notes

• Maximum Size: ~4–6 inches
• Lifespan: 3–5 years
• Behavior: Territorial, active, and curious
• Molting: Regular molts are normal—ensure hiding spots and stable water to prevent stress

Colorful, bold, and full of personality, the Cherax Boesemani Tricolor Crayfish is a true showpiece invertebrate—perfect for aquarists looking to add something unique, interactive, and visually striking to their freshwater setup.