Assorted Vampire Crab - 2cm

Species Profile

• Scientific Name: Geosesarma dennerle
• Common Name: Assorted Vampire Crab, Vampire Crab
• Adult Size: 1 – 1.5 inches (2.5 – 3.8 cm), not including leg span
• Life Expectancy: 1.5 – 2.5 years (sometimes up to 3 years in ideal conditions)
• Habitat: Native to freshwater and brackish forest streams in Southeast Asia, especially on Java Island, Indonesia. Lives in moist, humid environments with access to both land and shallow water.

Tank Requirements

• Minimum Tank Size: 5 gallons (19 liters) for a small group (1 male to 2–3 females)
• Ideal Temperature: 75°F – 82°F (24°C – 28°C)
• pH Range: 7.0 – 8.0
• Water Hardness: Moderate (6 – 15 dGH)
• Temperament: Semi-territorial but can be kept in small groups if space and hiding spots are provided. Males may show aggression toward each other.

Important: Vampire crabs are terrestrial-aquatic and require a paludarium-style setup with both land and shallow freshwater areas.

Diet & Nutrition

• Omnivorous: Yes. Will eat a mix of protein-based and plant-based foods. Accepts commercial crab pellets, bloodworms, brine shrimp, blanched vegetables (like spinach or zucchini), and detritus.

Appearance

• Coloration: Vibrant and highly variable—commonly deep purple or blue bodies with contrasting orange, yellow, or white claws. Bright yellow or glowing white eyes give them the “vampire” name.
• Size: Small but striking; colorful bodies and claws stand out in planted or naturalistic enclosures.

Distinctive Features

• Terrestrial crabs that need land and water access
• Brightly colored claws and glowing eyes are signature traits
• Low bioload and suitable for small bioactive terrariums or paludariums
• Known for being relatively easy to breed in captivity
• Nocturnal and shy during the day, more active at dusk or under dim lighting