Vampire crabs are an intriguing and captivating species, and have become increasingly popular as pets in recent years. Belonging to the genus Geosesarma and native to Asia (particularly Indonesia), these crustaceans can be seen both on land and water - inhabiting both rocky outcrops as well as dense foliage around freshwater lakes and rivers. Their vivid coloring ranges from purple, orange and yellow hues ranging to red hues; their wild counterparts feed off plant and animal detritus while captivity residents should provide both live food as well as frozen foods for optimal performance.
Bloodworms, brine shrimp, earthworms, crickets and grasshoppers are among the many foods consumed by crabs as omnivorous animals. Additionally, vegetables like spinach and nettles offer excellent sources of calcium that contributes to maintaining their carapace. Flakes, algae wafers and specialty crab pellets may also be eaten regularly by them.
As with other crustaceans, vampire crabs undergo a process known as molting when their bodies outgrow their current exoskeleton, forcing them to shed and form a new one. Unfortunately, during this period the crabs become very vulnerable, often retreating into hidden areas until their new shell has completely formed.
These animals are generally easy to care for, and can be kept either individually or in groups. While vampire crabs can sometimes become aggressive toward one another, they generally coexist peacefully with fish and aquatic plants. As with other freshwater crabs, vampire crabs are susceptible to many of the same diseases affecting fish.
