What is the required substrate depth for *Cherax destructor* to fulfill their burrowing instinct?
3 to 4 inches of coarse sand or fine gravel
Providing the correct physical structure in the habitat is directly linked to reducing stress, which is vital for a long life in a yabby. Because these decapods are renowned for digging and constructing elaborate burrows, the substrate depth is a functional necessity, not just an aesthetic choice. The recommendation specifies a deep layer, ideally between three to four inches, composed of coarse sand or fine gravel. If the substrate is too shallow, a mature yabby cannot excavate a chamber deep enough to feel secure, leading to perpetual stress due to constant exposure to light and perceived threats. This inability to fulfill this fundamental instinct can silently reduce lifespan even when standard water quality tests appear normal.
