The Hammers Cobalt Blue Lobster (Procambarus clarkii) is one of the more dazzling ornamental crayfish that tropical fish
keeping enthusiasts often keep in their aquariums.
Selective breeding gives this Procambarus Clarkii its brilliant blue color which does not fade (except when stressed) as the “lobster” grows. In fact, as the Cobalt Blue Lobster grows larger, its light blue color in younger specimens changes to a magnificent brilliant blue color which intensifies as it matures.
Although wild specimens can reach appreciably larger sizes; the selective breeding that produces the brilliant blue coloration also limits the adult size of the specimen. Hammers Cobalt Blue Lobsters typically reach only about 5 inches in an aquarium environment.
The Hammers Cobalt Blue Lobster is often brown or a light drab blue color if it has been shipped. This is due to stress incurred during shipping however, in a few days the bright blue color returns as the crustacean regains its composure and takes up residence in the tank.
Since it only attains a length of about 5 inches when fully grown, the Hammers Cobalt Blue Lobster can be housed in an aquarium of at least 20 gallons. They need a medium to fine sand or gravel substrate for burrowing, and should have plenty of river rock, plants, and driftwood in their tank for cover.
Hammers Cobalt Blue Lobsters are territorial towards their own kind and need plenty of room if more than one is kept in the same tank. A good rule of thumb is to provide each “lobster” with at least 20 gallons of tank space.
These lobsters are omnivorous scavengers and will usually not bother fish unless they are ailing, slow or very small. Occasionally they will pick on Plecos but for the most part they are fine in a peaceful community tank with mid level swimming fish.
The Hammers Cobalt Blue Lobster is easy to feed. As a scavenger it will eat almost anything that settles on the bottom of the tank. Supplement their diet with a quality sinking pellet, flake food, chopped worms, or algae wafers.
The Hammers Cobalt Blue Lobster can be pricey and is usually available for sale when they reach 2″ to 3″ in length.
Minimum Tank Size: 20 gallons
Care Level: Easy
Temperament: Semi-aggressive
Aquarium Hardiness: Hardy
Water Conditions: 68-85° F, KH 3-10, pH 6.5-8.0
Max. Size: 5″
Color Form: Cobalt Blue
Diet: Omnivore
Origin: Farm Raised in the USA
Family: Cambaridae
Livespan: 5 – 6 years
Aquarist Experience Level: Beginner
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