Cichlids and crayfish

[LIBPA]

I have a 55 gallon african cichlid tank with currently ten 2 and 3 inch fish in it. Would it be ok to have a crayfish in there? Will they bother it, or would the crayfish bother them? If they can't or shouldn't be together its not a big deal. Thanks

 

[jm1212]

i would leave it as-is. from the size of your fish and depending on the crayfish species, your fish could get picked off by the crayfish.

 

[Shocker6966]

I've kept crayfish with Africans without any problem. I'd be more worried about the crayfish come molt time.

 

[tarheels910]

Just provide many hiding places for the crayfish. Crayfish are known to snap at other fish. As long as the cichlids are fast enough to get away they should be fine.

 

[freshwaterkid]

The crayfish will take advantage of any weak / sick fish and kill them so becarefull

 

[Shocker6966]

The crayfish will take advantage of any weak / sick fish and kill them so becarefull

Fortunately fish typically head for the oxygen rich surface of the tank when weak or stressed.

 

[Slappy*McFish]

Most adult cichlids 5" and up can easily kill and eat crayfish.
Any cichlid under 1.5" however, could be at risk of being attacked and eaten by the crayfish.

 

[Derek3975]

Against all advice, I've been keeping a "blue lobster" in my 55g with fish as small as 2inches and as large as my 5 inch male Hai Reef peacock. The crayfish has molted several times, and I've had some sick fish. No problems with anyone picking on the other. I do, however, have about 150 pounds of rock in my tank with lots of hiding spots for everyone. No problems at all. FWIW

 

[fish_chic]

i wouldn't put a crayfish in with bottom dwelling fish (cichlids) ive had a cray in my 90 gal in it went after everyfish that came near (and there a plenty of hiding spots) so maybe it depends on the cray but i woulnt risk.