Crayfish deaths?

Question

I have brought 4 new Aust. baby red claws as my last 5 died the night I got them. My new crayfish survived the night but not the day all but one died I have taken this last one out of the tank and into a empty butter container for now until I know whats wrong this last crayfish seems ok but he is climbing the rocks as if to get out of the water or seeking air Is this normal
I have done everything the pet store told me to the water has been neutralised for chlorine I have fed my crayfish once as it has only been 24hrs since I got him tried giving him more but after an hour I took it out as he didnt want it He has rocks to climb and a hiding spot
My last crayfish all died around the same time as each other I found them lying belly-up on the bottom of my tank I have read of some where people have thought their crays where dead but infact molting They would not respond to being moved and seemed lifeless Is there a way to tell if they where molting? And how can I stop my crays from dying?

Answer 1

It does sound like a wtaer quality issue to me. Other than the typical water quality checks for ammonia, nitrites and nitrates I would suggest you also have your water tested for copper. Crayfish are very sensitive to metals in the water and copper is by far the most common. Sometimes people that live in homes with copper water pipes have trouble with them just because of the little trace of copper that is picked up from the pipes. Could this be the problem? If so you can get materials from better pet shops that remove copper fom your tank or a small drinking water filter could be used to remove problem metals.

MM

Answer 2

A temperature range of 65-77 F (18-25 C) is best for good growth of most species from the continental United States, but they can survive over a much wider range. Some species are tropical, some require cold water. If the water is too soft or the pH is too low then there is a risk of calcium deficiency that could inhibit molting. Medium hard or hard water with a slightly alkaline pH, 7.5 - 8.5, is best. They are cannibalistic if they are crowded or not provided with suitable shelter and lots of food,so usually thier lifelessness means they are either trying to molt or were getting eaten over night.Water crustaceans are hard to care for,especially if they dont have hiding places where they can hide from a vulnerable attack.Does your tank at first seemed overcrowded with them? A filter and many hididng places would help alot.Make sure they eat plenty so they dont end up eating each other.Try seperating half of the crayfish onto another tank with A FILTER. :]

Answer 3

Cray fish are no different than fish and require the same water conditions. What is your water quality readings? Regular water changes are also a must. Check the ammonia / nitrate readings in your tank or have the pet store whereyou purchased them.

If you are buying your crayfish from Walmart, well there is most of your problem.

Also, don't add 4 or 5 at one time. only add 1 at a time to your tank. That is after you get your water quality together.