General Info

Scientific Name: Procambarus sp.

Common Name(s): Marmorkreb, Marbled Crayfish

Adult Size: 4" (reported larger, to 5")

Diet: Like most crayfish, it will eat whatever is available to it. And shows equal preference to either meat or vegetable matter, though meat based foods had to be prepared first. I've never had a Marmorkreb that would actively hunt or catch any live feeders.

Breeding: Reproduces parthenogenetically (without a mate, there are no males in this species) every few months in almost all conditions. Though, certain lower temperature ranges can yield repeated berries roughly a month apart from each other.

Temperament: Non-aggressive. This species will co-exist with many of it's own kind, other species of crayfish (not recommended as other species may eat your Marmorkreb) and various other species of inverts, fish and aquatic amphibians. Offspring of this species can also be left with the mother without much fear of cannibalism from the parent.

Behavior in Captivity: Very peaceful and active.

History: This crayfish was first discovered in the pet trade in Germany in the early 1990s. The original origin(s) of this species, be it a naturally occurring or created hybrid species, is currently unknown. The species appears to be closely related to other Procambarus species, leaving most to believe this species is not native to Europe, where it was originally found. In the past few years, Marmorkrebs have found in the wild (most likely released aquaria pets) in Germany and Madagascar (in Madagascar, this species is being spread further by it's sale in local markets). Creating moderate concern about invasive issues, as this is the only species of decapod crustaceans that reproduce through parthenogenesis (most likely apomixis) and has the ability to survive a much wider range of temperatures and habitats than most crayfish.

Pictures:


These are the most common colorations in Marmorkrebs, the brown and grey. The blue coloration in the claws and legs is result of having high protein in their diet.



Despite being genetically identical to their parent, occasionally anomalies in coloration occur, resulting in beautifully colored and patterned crayfish.

Sources:
marmorkrebs.org
bluecrayfish.com
Scholtz et al. 2003
Alwes & Scholz 2006
Vogt et al. 2004
Jones et al. 2008
Seitz et al. 2005

Picture Sources:
Chris Lukhaup
Uwe Werner