Description
About Vampire Crabs
Vampire crabs are a species of small, colourful, semi-terrestrial crabs native to the tropical rainforest streams in Southeast Asia. They are known for their striking coloration, which includes hues of purple, red, orange, and blue. Their claws are often the most vibrant part of their bodies.
They are referred to as the vampire crab due to their glowing eyes and their crepuscular feeding habits (they eat during the twilight hours, after sunset, and before sunrise).
Behaviour
Vampire crabs are known to be relatively peaceful among each other when space is abundant, but males can be territorial with each other and towards other species of crabs. They love to burrow and climb around to explore their habitat.
They are pretty skittish and shy and would hide when being approached. Vampire crabs are also not very active. Once they find a place where they like to sit, they will stay there for long periods of time. However, it does not mean that they are slow. These crabs can sprint for short distances very well.
Environment
The Enclosure: Vampire crabs are small. Three adults can be kept comfortably in a tank with a minimum size of 20 litres. A paludarium setup (land and water setup) is recommended as vampire crabs require more land than water.
The Water: Vampire crabs need clean water for healthy molting. Water in their enclosure should be kept clean and changed often if a filter is not being used. Stagnant and stale water will make the crabs ill.
Lighting: Any LED lighting can be used in their enclosure.
Substrate: Vampire crabs are not picky with their substrate. Soil, gravel, and sand can be used in their enclosure. Coconut fiber, sphagnum, and peat moss can use used to create a moist and humid environment. A thick layer should be added to allow them to burrow.
Decorations: Vampire crabs will appreciate all types of leaves, rocks, wood, plants, moss, PVC pipes, etc. in the tank.
Tankmates: Vampire crabs are social animals that do well in a community with their own kind as long as there is enough space for them. Other crab species are not recommended, as fights can break out.
If the aquatic areas are large and spacious, fish and shrimp can be added, but with caution, as vampire crabs are known to predate on them.
Nutrition
Vampire crabs are omnivorous and will accept almost anything they can get their claws on. Their diet consists of small insects (living or dead), worms, and plant detritus.
In captivity, they will accept all kinds of freeze dried foods (shrimp, worms, etc.), fish food, vegetables (dried or fresh), fruits, dry leaves, and crab specific foods.
Tank Maintenance
Maintenance should be done at least once a week. Water should be changed and dechlorinated. Dead plant matter and leftover foods should be regularly removed from the enclosure to prevent it from rotting.
Supply Checklist
Here are some necessary supplies owners will need to keep their vampire crabs happy and healthy~
- Appropriate size aquarium
- Filter (optional)
- Lighting
- Decorations (plants, wood, rocks, etc.)
- Substrate
- Water Conditioner
- Crab Food
Important Notes
- Vampire crabs need calcium to support their shell growth and to have a healthy molt. Crab foods and dried shrimp can supply a healthy dose of calcium for the crabs.
- Vampire crabs are semi-terrestrial animals and do not do well in a full aquatic setup. Create a setup with a land-to-water ratio of 50:50 or 80:20.
- Do not mix crabs of different species with vampire crabs.
- A lid is recommended, as vampire crabs are great escape artists.
And you’re set! All the best to you and your crabbies!
For further enquiries, contact us at 03-7733 7469 or drop by our shop and speak to our team!