Austin Animal Clinic

Freshwater Fish – Hammers Cobalt Blue Lobster

Hammers Cobalt Blue Lobster is actually a type of ornamental crayfish. They have a bright blue shell which is great in aquariums for adding more color than may be available. Thanks to selective breeding, this type of crayfish won’t lose its bright blue color. While this is true, the fish may end up brown due to stress. This can be true following shipping. If the crayfish does turn brown, don’t worry. It will regain its blue coloring.

Blue lobsters are relatively small in aquariums only reaching a maximum length of 5”. They need an aquarium that is at least 20 gallons. The bottom of the tank needs to be covered in fine or medium grain gravel to ease its burrowing.

While these guys have been known to be territorial, it is generally exhibited only towards other blue lobsters. Because of this, much larger aquariums are needed for multiple lobsters. To house multiple lobsters safely, each lobster needs 20 gallons of water. In addition, lots of plants and rocks are needed to give them cover.

These guys will not, typically, eat other fish unless they are very slow and very small. In order for a fish to be eaten, the fish needs to be pretty much sick or dying. Blue lobsters will act as omnivores that act as scavengers. They will eat anything that comes to rest on the bottom of the tank. To supplement their diet, give them sinking pellets, flake foods, and dried algae.

For more information on fish and aquariums or other pets, contact your Austin Veterinarian.