Vampire Crab

Geosesarma dennerle

Also known as Dracula Crab

Animalia›Arthropoda›Malacostraca›Decapoda›Sesarmidae

The Vampire Crab is a striking semi-aquatic crab native to Indonesia, known for its deep red coloration and bright yellow eyes. These small, peaceful crabs are primarily terrestrial but require access to water for respiration and moisture. They are popular in paludarium and semi-aquatic setups due to their unique appearance and relatively manageable care requirements.

At a glance

Size: 0.75 in; 2 cm
Min tank: 5 gal; 19 L
Temp: 72–79°F; 22–26°C
pH: 6.5-7.5
GH: 71–143 ppm; 4–8 dGH
Temperament: Peaceful
Swims: Bottom
Lifespan: 2-3 yrs

Ammonia 0 ppm and nitrate under 20 ppm.

Care

Diet

Vampire Crabs are detritivores that feed primarily on biofilm, algae wafers, and decaying organic matter. Supplement with blanched vegetables (spinach, zucchini) and high-protein foods like small pieces of fish or shrimp pellets 2-3 times weekly. A mature tank with established biofilm is essential for their nutrition.

Behavior

Vampire Crabs are primarily nocturnal and spend much of their time on land or in shallow water, using their gills to extract oxygen from moist air. They are solitary and territorial but generally peaceful toward other species. They are excellent climbers and will attempt to escape if not provided with a secure lid; they require both aquatic and terrestrial zones in their habitat.

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 nearly impossible. Most Vampire Crabs in the hobby are wild-caught, and breeding is not recommended for hobbyists.

Tank mates

See all 5

Nerite Snail

Both are peaceful detritivores that occupy similar ecological niches without competing aggressively

excellent

Amano Shrimp

Peaceful invertebrates; Vampire Crabs may occasionally harass shrimp but rarely cause serious harm

good

Ghost Shrimp

Small shrimp may be preyed upon by crabs; only suitable in larger tanks with ample hiding spaces

caution

Java Moss

Provides biofilm growth, shelter, and climbing surfaces that crabs require

excellent

Anubias Nana

Hardy plant that provides cover and biofilm without being damaged by crab activity

excellent

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Not legal advice, and possibly incomplete or out of date.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.