FOLIO
Mention the word crayfish and people react with something like, “Oh, yeah, I used to catch ’em down at the creek.” These scary little scavengers burrow in holes they dig in the ground, piling mud above it in what looks like a chimney. It’s said that the crayfish is about as wide as the hole it creates, and I’ve seen holes bigger than my ears are long. There are tons of interesting facts about these crustaceans that the average Joe might not know. If you’re curious to learn more, meet Señor Pinch Pinch, an atypical crayfish living a typical crayfish life.
A Little Cray Cray
Davi: Which do you prefer: freshwater or saltwater?
Señor Pinch Pinch: I like only freshwater. Saltwater makes me feel gross and I cannot survive in it.
Tell me something about crayfish that most people don’t know.
I swim backwards! It’s the fastest and most common way for crayfish to escape danger.
What are some of your favorite foods?
I’m an omnivore, so I eat almost anything, but I prefer shrimp and lobster pellets, and will gladly gobble zucchini!
What are some red flags you watch out for in daily life?
Overeating! Overeating can cause my shell to become soft and brittle, like my ego.
What do you say you’re much better at than you actually are?
Keeping my tank clean. Crayfish are notorious for hiding food, and will often have a stash stowed away in a cave. On top of that, we’re messy eaters, and mix that with hidden food, our water quality can quickly decline.
What is the weirdest thing you do?
I can regenerate lost limbs. Good thing, too, because in mating season, we often lose legs or claws during a power match.
What hue are you?
I am a beautiful shade of blue. I actually match the wallpaper in my living room!
Has anyone ever told you that you look like a mini-lobster?
Only those who want to be pinched. We are both crustaceans, so we favor each other, but crayfish are much smaller–and smarter.
If you could live anywhere besides here, where would that be?
I’m told there are many muddy places around the globe, but I like the clear waters of my 10-gallon tank best.
What other names have you been called?
I’ve been called pinchy-poo, pinchy-pants, crawdad or daddy, crawfish, and my all-time favorite, mudbug.
Do you have any special talents?
I have extremely good eyesight and can move my eyes independently of one another. Weird, right?
Crayfish are definitely fascinating and quite quirky, to say the least, and a great option for anyone who finds fish a little too boring. Because of their unusual appearance, distinct personalities and hardiness, crayfish have become a top pet choice. Some crays are tiny and peaceful; others are massive and will try to destroy anything in their way. Whichever you choose, you’ll end up with an interesting addition to your aquarium!
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Davi the dachshund will never look at Low Country boil the same again.
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