Red Claw Crab

Perisesarma bidens

Also known as Thai Devil Crab, Sesarma Crab

Animalia›Arthropoda›Malacostraca›Decapoda›Sesarmidae

The Red Claw Crab is a semi-aquatic species native to Southeast Asia, recognizable by its distinctive red claws and compact body. These crabs are moderately aggressive and require both aquatic and terrestrial zones in their tank setup. They are popular in the hobby but demand careful tank mate selection and specific environmental conditions.

At a glance

Size: 2 in; 5 cm
Min tank: 20 gal; 76 L
Temp: 72–79°F; 22–26°C
pH: 6.5-7.5
GH: 71–143 ppm; 4–8 dGH
Temperament: Semi-aggressive
Swims: Bottom
Lifespan: 2-3 yrs

Ammonia 0 ppm and nitrate under 20 ppm.

Care

Diet

Red Claw Crabs are opportunistic omnivores that consume algae wafers, blanched vegetables (spinach, zucchini), small invertebrates, and biofilm. Supplement with quality sinking pellets and occasional live or frozen foods like bloodworms or brine shrimp. Feed small amounts 2-3 times per week, removing uneaten food after 24 hours.

Behavior

These crabs are primarily nocturnal and spend much of their time foraging on the substrate and climbing on décor. They are territorial and will fight with conspecifics and may prey on smaller tank mates or shrimp. They require access to both water and land; provide driftwood, rocks, or a floating platform for emergence and resting.

Breeding

Breeding in captivity is extremely difficult and rarely successful in home aquariums. Females produce larvae that require brackish water to develop, making freshwater breeding impractical. Most specimens in the hobby are wild-caught or commercially bred in specialized facilities.

Tank mates

See all 6

Anubias Snow White

Hardy plant that crabs cannot easily damage; provides cover and foraging surfaces

excellent

Java Moss

Durable plant that crabs will not consume; creates biofilm for grazing

excellent

Nerite Snail

May be predated upon by crabs; provide plenty of hiding spots and hard shells for protection

caution

Otocinclus

Small fish at risk of predation; only suitable in larger tanks with ample hiding spaces

caution

Bristlenose Pleco

Nocturnal and armored; less likely to be preyed upon; similar habitat preferences

good

No state or federal restrictions on record.

Not legal advice, and possibly incomplete or out of date. Rules vary by state and change over time; check with your state wildlife or agriculture agency before buying, keeping or shipping it.

The care information here is written with AI help, so it can contain mistakes. Spot one? Tell us and we'll fix it.