Carnival Yellow Vampire Crab Geosesarma species Care Guide

The Carnival Yellow Vampire Crab is a striking semi terrestrial crab known for its bright yellow body contrasting with vivid purple eyes. It is a small colorful species that is popular in paludariums and vivariums rather than traditional aquariums. This crab is best suited for experienced keepers due to its specific habitat needs and territorial behavior.

Appearance and Size
Carnival Yellow Vampire Crabs have a vibrant yellow to golden body with long slender legs and intense purple or violet eyes. Adults typically reach a body size of about 1.5 to 2 inches with leg span appearing larger. Males usually have slimmer bodies and larger claws while females are rounder with smaller claws.

Natural Habitat and Behavior
These crabs originate from tropical regions of Southeast Asia where they inhabit humid forest floors near streams and shallow pools. They are primarily land dwelling but require access to shallow freshwater for soaking and molting. They are nocturnal and spend much of the day hiding under rocks leaf litter or wood. Vampire crabs are territorial especially males and should be kept in small groups with plenty of hiding places.

Enclosure Requirements
A paludarium or terrarium setup is required rather than a fully aquatic tank. A minimum enclosure size of 10 gallons is recommended for a small group with more space preferred. The setup should be about 70 to 80 percent land and 20 to 30 percent shallow freshwater.

Substrate should be moisture retaining such as coco fiber soil or a bioactive mix. Provide plenty of hides using cork bark rocks driftwood and leaf litter. Live plants and moss help maintain humidity and create a natural environment. A tight fitting lid is essential as these crabs are excellent climbers.

Temperature and Humidity
Ideal temperature range is 72 to 82 degrees Fahrenheit. Humidity should be kept high around 75 to 90 percent. Regular misting and a well planted enclosure help maintain proper humidity levels.

Water Requirements
The water area should be shallow and freshwater only with no salt added. Use dechlorinated water and keep it clean by regular water changes. Gentle filtration can be used but is not required if water volume is small and maintained properly.

Diet and Feeding
Carnival Yellow Vampire Crabs are omnivores. Their diet should include a variety of foods such as high quality crab pellets algae wafers blanched vegetables leaf litter frozen foods like bloodworms brine shrimp and occasional protein sources such as insects or fish food. Calcium sources such as cuttlebone or mineral blocks are important for healthy molting.

Tank Mates
These crabs are best kept in species only setups. They are not compatible with fish shrimp or other crabs. Small groups can be kept together if the enclosure is large and well structured with many hiding spots to reduce aggression.

Breeding
Breeding can occur in captivity under proper conditions. Females carry fully developed miniature crabs rather than free swimming larvae. When babies appear they should be provided with plenty of hiding spaces and food as adults may prey on them.

General Care and Health
With proper humidity temperature and diet Carnival Yellow Vampire Crabs are hardy. Poor ventilation dry conditions or lack of calcium can lead to failed molts and health issues. Regular observation is important as these crabs are good at hiding signs of stress.

Summary
The Carnival Yellow Vampire Crab is a beautiful and fascinating species ideal for tropical paludarium setups. Its bright coloration unique behavior and manageable size make it a favorite among crab enthusiasts who can meet its specific care requirements.