
Freshwater Crab
Freshwater Crabs are unique, small invertebrates that bring color, personality, and fascinating behavior to aquarium setups. While some species like the Thai Micro Crab are fully aquatic, most, including the popular Vampire Crab and Red Apple Crab, are semi-aquatic and require access to both land and water. These crabs thrive in paludarium-style tanks with shallow water zones, plenty of hiding spots, and secure lids to prevent escapes.
They are omnivorous scavengers, feeding on sinking pellets, blanched vegetables, algae wafers, and protein-rich treats like bloodworms or brine shrimp. Crabs are generally peaceful with tank mates that don’t invade their space, but due to their territorial nature, they’re best kept in species-only tanks or with fast, mid-to-top dwelling fish. Freshwater crabs molt regularly as they grow and need safe shelters during this vulnerable phase. With proper care, these crabs can live 1.5 to 3 years, offering a bold and interactive addition to any aquascape.
Depending on the species, freshwater crabs may spend more time underwater or require access to land. Understanding their needs is key to keeping them healthy and active.
You can get more info about the How to Keep and Care for Freshwater Crabs in Home Aquarium
At Splashy Fish Store, our Freshwater Crab for sale are carefully hand-selected and quarantined before shipping to ensure the highest quality when the order comes to our customers. Visit us to buy these freshwater shrimp online or at our aquarium store in Virginia for more other Neocaridina shrimp for sale, Caridina shrimp for sale, freshwater fish for sale, freshwater lobster for sale, and live aquatic plants for sale.
Freshwater Crab Frequently Asked Questions FAQs
What do Freshwater Crabs eat?
Freshwater crabs are omnivores. They eat sinking pellets, algae wafers, blanched vegetables (like zucchini and spinach), and occasional protein-rich treats such as bloodworms or shrimp pieces.
How to care for Freshwater Crab?
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Tank: 10+ gallons with both water and land areas for semi-aquatic species. Use a tight lid—crabs can escape.
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Water: 72–78°F, pH 6.5–7.8, clean with weekly water changes. Use a gentle filter.
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Feeding: Omnivores—offer sinking pellets, veggies, and protein like bloodworms. Feed once daily, preferably at night.
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Tank Mates: Best in species-only tanks. If mixed, choose fast fish and provide lots of hiding spots.
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Molting: Crabs shed their shells to grow. Provide cover and don’t remove molts—they may eat them for calcium.
How big do Freshwater Crabs get?
Most freshwater crabs reach about 1–2 inches, though some larger species like the Red Apple Crab can grow up to 4 inches. Always check the expected adult size before adding them to your tank.