Purple Vampire Crab

The Vampire Crab, is a great choice for anyone looking to keep a distinctive low-maintenance pet in a slightly different than usual aquarium setup. An undescribed species of the genus Geosarma aristocratensis, Vampire Crabs are semi-terrestrial invertebrates that are native to regions of Southeast Asia.

Crabs are a wonderful species to keep in smaller aquaria, and benefit from lots of climbing and hiding places, and thrive in very little water. A large piece of natural wet driftwood sat in around a quarter-full water aquarium makes an ideal habitat for crabs. Vampire crabs are not freshwater dwelling crabs, they are a semi-terrestrial species, so they need to be able to leave the water. A humid aquarium low on water and heavy with basking platforms or rocky outcrops to leave the water is essential. They are also suitable for aqua-terrariums. 

Are Vampire Crabs aggressive?
Yes aggression can be a problem for Vampire Crabs. They are fine and peaceful with their own species, but other species of crab or small fish are at risk of being attacked or eaten. Vampire crabs are not very active however, and will often sit in one place for long periods of time. Best to keep in a species-only habitat, as conditions are unlikely to be suitable for fish.

Do Vampire Crabs need heat?
Vampire crabs do need humidity and heated water yes, but not a direct basking heat lamp source. An area for them to exit the water and bask is recommended, but it does not need to be accompanied by a heat lamp.

Features
Approx. supplied size: 2" / 5cm
Maximum size: 3" / 7cm
Origin: Southeast Asia
Family: Geosesarma
Temperament: Peaceful with own species
Lighting requirement: low
Ideal number kept together: 1+

Water Conditions
Our conditions: pH 7.5, temp 25 °C
Ideal pH: 7.5–8.0
Water flow: low
Temperature: 22–28 °C

Ease of Care
Moderate. Vampire crabs are good escape artists, and will climb cables and filter pipes. Ensure your aquarium have a tight lid to prevent escape. Crabs will often moult their exoskeleton, so be careful not to mistake this for a crab lost. Plenty of hiding spaces for moulting are recommended.

Feeding
Omnivorous, will eat a wide range of foods from grazing on veggy matter and algae to meaty treats such as shrimp and bloodworm. Crabs will benefit from a ready source of calcium to ensure a healthy strong shell.

Breeding
Egg layers. Males are slightly larger with more vibrant coloured claws. Vampire crabs species does not breed readily in home aquaria, although they are commonly bred in captivity. Conditions need to be humid for successul breeding. 

Life Span
Vampire crabs can live 1-2 years in perfect conditions.
Photo is for illustration only - one supplied.

For more information on general fishkeeping and our shipping procedures click here.