using local fish

Question
I would like to catch and use fish, crayfish, snails, or whatever I can find from a local creek for use in an aquaruium.  I would also like to use rocks and maybe plants from the area, too.  What is the best way to set up this Ohio stream habitat?

Answer
Ben,

Setting up an aquarium is quite easy. Crayfish are very easy to keep and need little care. Of course before adding the fish, the tank needs to be cycled for 2 to 3 weeks. Most fish will be ok with him but remember, crayfish are scavengers and opportunist and will eat any small fish that comes within reach. The crayfish like to burrow, so your substrate should be sand. If you put snails in the tank, the crayfish will most likely eat them. I am not sure how big the snail would have to be to be safe in that tank. You can feed the crayfish turtle pellets or even feeder fish.

As far as tank, crayfish need at least a 20 gallon tank per fish. If you want 2 then i would suggest a 40 gallon tank. they are territorial so the tank has to be big enough for both of them to have their own "space". They are very dirty, so you will need a very good filter. Make sure the rocks and plants that you get are washed very well before placing them in the aquarium.

Other than that it is a trial and error on what will work and what won't. If you have any more question, please feel free to ask.

Good Luck on the new aquarium