Care Level: Moderate

Temperament: Peaceful

Live Plant Safe: Yes

General Description: The Vampire Crab is a unique, semi-terrestrial creature that can make a fun addition into the right set-up. A paludarium, which is a habitat that includes both terrestrial and aquatic elements, is the ideal place for a Vampire crab. Native to Java, Indonesia, these beautiful crabs are found in rainforests near streams, rivers and ponds. Given their native habitat, warm and humid conditions are therefore very important for Vampire crabs; a humidity level of no less than 75% is recommended. An ideal paludarium would be one that is 2/3 land and 1/3 water, with features (such as plants and other decor) within the water that extend above the water line. Water, mosses and other live plants will help to increase the humidity of the set-up naturally. Vampire crabs are communal and do best when kept in groups. Males can be distinguished from females by their larger claws. A ratio of one male to two females is preferred. An adult Vampire crab can reach of size of approximately 2″.

Diet Requirements: Vampire crabs are naturally omnivorous scavengers. Offer a diet of high quality flake foods, pellet foods, freeze-dried foods, frozen foods and sheet algae. Offering calcium supplements or cuttlebone is needed for exoskeletal health. Variety is the spice of life, even for these small invertebrates.

Care Requirements: An established minimum 10 to 15 gallon aquarium is ideal for small group of Vampire crabs. Size up accordingly to accommodate a larger colony. A secure lid is absolutely necessary to prevent these crabs from inadvertently escaping up cords or tubing out of the aquarium. Crabs are very intolerable of nitrite or ammonia spikes. Weekly or biweekly water changes are encouraged to keep water parameters up to standard (Nitrates < 20 ppm). Avoid the use of copper based medications as this will cause harm to, or even kill, your Vampire crab. Given their environment specific requirements, Vampire crabs tend to do best in a species only set-up. Vampire crabs use pure freshwater, so no salt should be added. The use of an internal filter will help keep the water clearer and from being stagnant. While we don’t recommend fish tank mates, some options such as certain livebearers or tetra may be suitable options depending on the water portion of the paludarium. Keep in mind, however, that sometimes fish can be predated on by Vampire crabs. Vampire crabs often clean leaves of live plants, including removal of dead ones. While peaceful with its own species, Vampire crabs are not compatible with other semi-terrestrial crabs because they are seen as competition. Recommended water conditions, 76-82° F, KH 4-10, pH 7.5-8.0, humidity 75% or greater.

Purchase Size: Medium: 3/4” to 1”

Note: Your item may not look identical to the image provided due to variation within species. Purchase sizes are approximate.