For those who begin in aquarium or terraophilia, or even for those who barely recognize these terms, the mind often evokes images of fish swimming in illuminated or reptile tanks resting on rocks. Rarely get to imagine that a crustacean of just a few centimeters, with colors that flash in purple, red and orange tones And a name as peculiar as “Vampire crab”, can capture the attention of fans. However, these little creatures have found an outstanding place among those who spend time recreate miniature habitats and look for something beyond the conventional.
In an aquaterary, the crabs of the species Geossarma They move between wet and dry areas, exploring their surroundings with precise movements. Native to the jungles of Indonesiathese small crustaceans have found a place in the homes of those who are dedicated to aquarium, attracted by their singular coloration and their night movements. Its presence in malaries, spaces that combine water and land, allows to recreate the conditions of their natural habitat, offering fans an opportunity to study a kind of particular characteristics.
The origin of his picturesque name
The name ‘Vampire Crab’ comes from a commercial strategy. The German company Dennerle, dedicated to aquarium products, sponsored the scientific description of the species Geossarma Dennerle In 2015 and chose a name that highlight its coloration. He Dark purple tone with orange or yellow eyes It evokes the Dracula layer, which inspired the denomination. Other varieties, such as Geossarma Hagen or ‘Red Devil’ (Red Devil), they also receive names that reflect their tones, facilitating their identification in the market.
Meteoric ascent
When vampire crabs appeared in the Aquarium trade in 2006, their compact size and intense colors attracted immediate attention. Although they did not receive their official name until 2015, thanks to the support of Dennerle, Its popularity grew quickly in European markets and beyond. The company promoted these creatures as a practical option for fans, highlighting its ability to adapt to well -designed domestic environments. Since then, its presence in specialized stores and aquarium events has consolidated its reputation as an accessible species.
Characteristics of geossearma crabs
Vampire crabs are terrestrial crustaceans that thrive in the wet areas of Indonesia, particularly on the island of Java. With a body that barely reaches three centimetersThey exhibit intense colored shades, complemented by eyes that stand out in the gloom. Unlike other crabs, they do not depend on remaining submerged; Their gills retain the humidity necessary to explore dry areas, which makes them ideal for malaries. His activity is concentrated at night, when they leave their shelters to seek food, while during the day they prefer to remain hidden. Males are territorial And they can fight, so it is advisable to give them a lot of space or have them alone, but they can also live without problems with other invertebrates.
What kind of tank do they need
To maintain vampire crabs, an aquaterary or malaria is indispensable, since it recreates the balance between wet and dry areas typical of its habitat in the jungles of Indonesia. The container requires a substrate that retains moisture, such as moss, coconut fiber or peatto imitate the tropical soil where these crustaceans dig small shelters near puddles. A fresh water sectionof no more than five to ten centimeters deep, it must be kept clean, free of chlorine and with a pH between 7 and 8, at temperatures of 22 to 28 degrees Celsius, which ensures a healthy environment.
Elements like trunks, smooth rocks or resistant plantspreferably strong roots like Pothos Or ferns, they offer shelters where crabs, of a shy nature, hide during the day. These plants must tolerate constant humidity, since the environment simulates a tropical jungle. A Filtration system Suitable preserves water quality, avoiding waste accumulations that could affect crabs. To manipulate them, caution is recommended, as their tweezers, although small, can pinch if they feel threatened.
The space is another relevant factor: a tank of at least 30×30 centimeters allows to accommodate a maximum of between 2-4 copiesreducing possible territorial disputes between males.
Food and reproduction
Vampire crabs are omnivoresconsuming a varied diet that includes plant remains, algae, small insects and commercial foods such as fish pellets. They also accept leftovers of vegetables, but the amount must be controlled to avoid water pollution. As for reproduction, females carry between 50 and 60 eggs that hatch in fresh water, without the need for saline conditions. The offspring, tiny at birth, begin to feed immediately, consuming organic algae or particles present in the aquaterary.
A respectful practice
The International Union for Nature Conservation (IUCN) has pointed out that populations of Geossarma They have decreased in their natural habitat due to the collection for pet commerce. This practice deserves all our attention, since unregulated capture can lead to the extinction of species in its original environment. Therefore, it is recommended acquire only specimens from captivity breedingensuring that they have the corresponding legal permits and avoiding any link with illegal traffic.
From Animalswe support the position expressed on the web Fishipediathat advocates “an aquarium Responsible and respectful With the environment. We encourage this practice whenever it is motivated by the desire to understand the biological functioning of living beings and whenever it is carried out respecting animal life. ”
