Overview Family: Parastacidae Yabbies are Australian freshwater crayfish found in creeks, dams, and billabongs across much of the country. Hardy and adaptable, they make fascinating aquarium pets thanks to their bold behaviour and natural curiosity. They dig burrows, rearrange décor, and can be quite interactive with keepers. Yabbies are best housed in species-only setups or large aquariums with robust décor, as they will nip at fish or plants within reach. They’re escape artists, so a secure lid is essential! Recommended Tank Size: A minimum of 40 litres Territorial and sometimes aggressive, especially during moulting Best kept alone or with fast, upper-level fish that can avoid them Provide rocks, PVC pipes, and hides to create secure shelters Average Adult Size: Body length: 10-20cm Reach adult size in 12–18 months Grow fastest in warm, clean water with regular feeding Lifespan: 3–5 years, occasionally longer in ideal conditions Water Parameters: pH: 6.0–8.0 Alkalinity (KH): 6–12 General Hardness (GH): 6–16 Temperature: 5–25 °C Note: Prefer cooler, well-oxygenated freshwater Food: Omnivorous scavengers with a varied diet Feed sinking pellets, algae wafers, and vegetables (peas, carrot, zucchini, spinach) Enjoy occasional protein treats (prawns, worms, or shrimp) Feed 3–4 times per week — remove uneaten food to prevent water fouling