About
EVERGREEN AQUA
Our Farm
Raising Crayfish Rresponsibly Since 2022
Since you've been on this journey since 2022, you’ve likely seen everything from the tiny, frantic scurrying of juveniles to the stoic, armored presence of mature adults.
Here is a reflection on your experience in English:
My Journey with Crayfish: From 2022 to Today
Since I first began keeping crayfish in 2022, the experience has been a fascinating dive into the world of freshwater crustaceans. What started as a simple curiosity has evolved into a rewarding long-term commitment. Over the past few years, I have witnessed firsthand the unique personality and biological wonders of these "freshwater lobsters."
The Early Days (2022)
Setting up the first tank back in 2022 was a steep learning curve. I quickly discovered that crayfish are not just passive inhabitants; they are underwater architects. I spent hours watching my first crayfish rearrange the gravel, claim its favorite hollow log, and fiercely guard its territory.
Growth and Transformation
One of the most incredible sights has been the molting process. Seeing a crayfish emerge from its old exoskeleton—larger, softer, and temporarily vulnerable—never gets old. Over these years, I’ve mastered the delicate balance of water chemistry, ensuring there is enough calcium for their new shells to harden properly.
Observations and Evolution
Since then, my setup and understanding have matured alongside my pets. I’ve learned to appreciate their quirks, such as:
The Escape Artists: Their uncanny ability to find the smallest gap in a tank lid.
The Foraging Rituals: The way they use their chelae (claws) to sift through sand for food.
Seasonal Shifts: How their activity levels fluctuate with the temperature and lighting.
Looking Forward
Entering my fourth year of this hobby, the tank has become a stable, thriving ecosystem. Looking back at 2022, I realize how much these creatures have taught me about patience and observation. They may be small, but their presence in the room is undeniable, and I look forward to many more years of watching them thrive in their aquatic home.
Our Story
Local Farm
Raising Australian Red Claw Crayfish (Cherax quadricarinatus) in a high-density urban environment like Hong Kong since 2022 has presented a unique set of challenges, primarily due to limited space and the local climate.
Challenges and Solutions: Raising Red Claws in Hong Kong
1. The Space Constraint vs. Rapid Growth
The Difficulty: In Hong Kong, most hobbyists live in apartments where floor space is a premium. As my Red Claws grew from 2-inch juveniles to 7-inch adults, the "horizontal footprint" required for their territory became a major issue. A standard small tank quickly became a battlefield.
The Solution: I transitioned to custom-built vertical racks and "long" shallow tanks that maximize surface area without taking up too much living space. I also utilized "stacked" hiding spots (using PVC pipes and ceramic tiles) to create a multi-story habitat, allowing multiple crayfish to coexist by utilizing the vertical height of the water.
2. Extreme Summer Temperatures
The Difficulty: Hong Kong summers are notoriously hot, with indoor temperatures often exceeding 30°C. For Red Claws, while they are tropical, sustained high temperatures deplete oxygen levels rapidly and can lead to "molt failure" or heat stress.
The Solution: Since running an air conditioner 24/7 is expensive, I invested in a dedicated aquarium chiller to keep the water at a stable 25°C - 26°C. Additionally, I added high-output air stones to ensure maximum oxygenation, as warm water holds significantly less dissolved oxygen.
3. Tap Water Quality (Chloramine and pH)
The Difficulty: Hong Kong’s Department of Water Supplies uses chlorine and chloramine to treat water. Fluctuations in water chemistry—especially during heavy rain seasons—can stress the crayfish, leading to lethargy or shell issues.
The Solution: I started using a multi-stage water conditioner that specifically neutralizes chloramine and heavy metals. To help with shell hardening, I added crushed coral or "wonder shells" to the filter to buffer the pH and provide the necessary calcium carbonate, ensuring the water didn't become too "soft" for successful molting.
4. Humidity and Equipment Maintenance
The Difficulty: The high humidity in Hong Kong (often above 80%) can lead to rapid salt creep and moisture damage on aquarium electronics and wooden stands. It also makes "evaporative cooling" (using fans) less effective.
The Solution: I switched to moisture-resistant LED lighting and ensured all electrical connections were housed in waterproof boxes. I also use a dehumidifier in the room to protect the equipment and improve the efficiency of the tank's cooling system.
By adapting my hobby to the specific environmental realities of Hong Kong, I have managed to maintain a thriving colony of Australian Red Claws since 2022. The journey has been a lesson in efficient space management and climatic control.
