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Cherax alciae "Blue Kong"
Freshwater crayfish – deep blue and impressive morphology
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
| Scientific name | Cherax alciae "Blue Kong" |
|---|---|
| Common name | Cherax Blue Kong |
| Adult size | 15–20 cm |
| Origin | Papua (Indonesia) |
| Temperature | 20–26 °C |
| pH | 6.5–7.5 |
| GH | 6–12 °dGH |
| KH | 3 – 8 °KH |
| Life expectancy | 3–5 years |
| Behaviour | Territorial |
| Habitat | Bottom |
| Minimum volume | 100 L (150 L recommended for a pair) |
| Diet | Omnivorous |
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.
Shipping and delivery of live invertebrates
Crayfish are individually packaged in secure, reinforced bags and placed in an insulated box with gel packs, depending on the season.
Delivery methods
- France Express (secure delivery in France, Belgium and Luxembourg)
- Collection from our shop in Sombreffe (Belgium)
Shipping arrangements
- Order deadline: every Monday at 10 a.m.
- France: departures on Monday or Tuesday, depending on the department, for delivery between Tuesday and Thursday.
- Belgium and Luxembourg: departures on Monday and Tuesday for delivery between Tuesday and Wednesday.