Cherax alciae "Blue Kong" is a spectacular ornamental crayfish native to Papua New Guinea. It is particularly sought after for its intense blue colouring with electric highlights and its impressive size when fully grown.

A robust but territorial species, it requires a specially designed aquarium with plenty of hiding places. It is suitable for aquarists with some experience.

Behaviour and maintenance

• Territorial – keep alone or in pairs
• May pinch slow-moving or bottom-dwelling fish
• Mainly nocturnal

A spacious aquarium with numerous caves is essential to limit stress and conflict.

Feeding

Opportunistic omnivore

• Pellets for crustaceans
• Poached vegetables (courgette, spinach)
• Occasional protein (artemia, mussels)

Avoid excess protein to prevent moulting problems.

Water quality

• Temperature: 20–26 °C
• pH: 6.5–7.5
• GH: 6–12 °dGH
• KH: 3–8 °KH

Well-oxygenated water and effective filtration are essential. Sensitive to high nitrate levels.

Decor and environment

• Numerous hiding places (rocks, roots, tubes)
• Sandy substrate or fine gravel
• Robust plants (Anubias, Microsorum) fixed to a support

Caution: may move the décor and sever fragile plants.

Care instructions

AquaBota tip

To promote proper moulting, ensure sufficient mineral intake (appropriate GH) and always leave the old shell in the tank: it will be consumed and recycled naturally.