Red Clawed Crab (Perisesarma bidens)

Hardy and Vibrant Freshwater Crab

Shipping Notice:
For the safety of our animals, we now ship live crabs exclusively via UPS Next Day Air. If your order contains this item, you will only see UPS Next Day Air as a shipping option during checkout.

PLEASE READ: This species is a semi-terrestrial crab. NOT FULLY AQUATIC. 

The Red Clawed Crab is a striking and hardy species that adds both color and personality to any aquarium. Its vibrant red claws and dark body create an impressive contrast, making it a standout in any aquascape. Known for their semi-aquatic lifestyle, these crabs thrive in tanks with both land and water areas, where they can explore, dig, and exhibit natural behaviors. Adaptable and beginner-friendly, the Red Clawed Crab is perfect for those looking to add a unique species to their setup.

What We Love About This Crab:

• Vivid Red Claws: The crab’s distinctive red claws provide a brilliant pop of color.
• Semi-Aquatic: Requires both land and water, adding a dynamic element to aquascaping.
• Algae Eater: Helps clean up algae and detritus in the tank, contributing to the ecosystem's balance.
• Curious and Active: Known for its explorative and burrowing behaviors, which provide constant entertainment.

Natural Habitat:

Red Clawed Crabs are native to the brackish waters of Southeast Asia, where they inhabit mangroves and estuaries. In the wild, they thrive in environments with both water and land, enjoying areas with slow-moving water and abundant plant cover.

Aquascaping Recommendations:

• Plants: Crabs prefer hardy plants like Anubias, Java Fern, and Mangrove plants that can tolerate brackish conditions and won’t be easily uprooted by their burrowing.
• Hardscape: Add rocks, driftwood, and caves to provide plenty of hiding spots and exploration areas. Smooth river rocks can help mimic their natural habitat.
• Botanicals: Adding Indian Almond Leaves or mangrove roots will not only enrich the environment but also promote beneficial biofilm growth for the crabs to feed on.

The Botanical Combo Pack is ideal for Red Claw Crabs and other semi-aquatic crabs. This curated assortment includes botanicals like Indian Almond Leaves and alder cones, which release beneficial tannins and provide natural cover. These botanicals help create a more enriched and natural habitat, supporting the well-being of your crabs while enhancing the aesthetics of your semi-aquatic setup.

Diet and Feeding:

Red Clawed Crabs are omnivorous and will thrive on a varied diet of algae wafers, shrimp pellets, and fresh vegetables like spinach or zucchini. They will also scavenge for detritus and algae within the tank, helping keep the environment clean.

Tank Mates and Compatibility:

While these crabs are generally peaceful, they can be territorial and should not be housed with small fish or invertebrates that may be seen as prey. Suitable tank mates include larger fish that can tolerate brackish conditions, such as mollies or bigger gobies. Avoid aggressive or fin-nipping species.

These Crabs should not be housed with any other crab species like Vampire Crabs.

Shrimp Safe:

Red Clawed Crabs are not shrimp-safe and may prey on shrimp or other small invertebrates. It is recommended to avoid housing them with shrimp or fry.

Recommended Tank Parameters:

• Temperature: 72° - 82°F (22° - 28°C)
• pH: 7.5 - 8.5
• KH: 6 - 12
• Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons with land and water areas

Care Guidelines:

• Diet: Feed daily with a variety of algae wafers, pellets, and fresh vegetables. Offer occasional protein like frozen bloodworms or brine shrimp.
• Social Behavior: Red Clawed Crabs are semi-social and can be kept in groups with ample space, but ensure each crab has its own territory to avoid conflict.
• Origin: Wild-caught from Southeast Asia’s brackish water regions.
• Average Adult Size: 2 inches
• Average Purchase Size: 1 - 1.5 inches

Add a Bold Personality to Your Aquarium!

The Red Clawed Crab’s vibrant colors and fascinating behaviors make it a wonderful addition to semi-aquatic tanks. Its unique needs offer an exciting challenge for aquarists looking to add variety and action to their setup.

Live Arrival Guarantee:

We guarantee the live arrival of your crabs. If anything happens during shipping, please contact us within two hours of delivery, and we will assist you immediately.