Thai Micro Spider Crab Care Guide

The Thai Micro Spider Crab is a very small fully aquatic freshwater crab known for its long thin legs and spider like appearance. It is a rare and delicate species that is best suited for peaceful planted aquariums and experienced keepers due to its sensitivity and specialized care needs.

Appearance and Size
Thai Micro Spider Crabs have extremely slender legs and a small compact body giving them a spider like look. Their coloration is usually brown tan or translucent which helps them blend into plants and hardscape. Adult body size is very small usually under 1 inch with leg span appearing much larger than the body itself.

Natural Habitat and Behavior
This species originates from slow moving streams and heavily vegetated waterways in Thailand. They spend much of their time clinging to plants wood and rocks rather than walking along the substrate. They are shy non aggressive and mostly nocturnal. Because of their small size and fragile nature they are easily stressed by strong flow or aggressive tank mates.

Aquarium Requirements
A fully aquatic freshwater aquarium is required. A minimum tank size of 5 to 10 gallons is suitable for a small group but larger tanks provide better stability. The aquarium should be densely planted with fine leaved plants mosses and gentle hardscape that allows climbing.

Water temperature should be kept between 72 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. pH should range from 6.5 to 7.5 with soft to moderately hard water. Excellent water quality is critical with zero ammonia and nitrite and low nitrate levels. Gentle filtration with minimal flow is recommended.

Diet and Feeding
Thai Micro Spider Crabs are omnivorous scavengers. They feed on biofilm algae and micro organisms in the aquarium. Supplemental foods should include finely crushed sinking pellets algae wafers blanched vegetables and occasional frozen foods such as baby brine shrimp or daphnia. Food should be offered in very small amounts to avoid fouling the water.

Tank Mates
These crabs should only be kept with very peaceful nano fish or small shrimp. Good companions include small rasboras endlers or Neocaridina shrimp. Avoid any aggressive or larger fish as well as crayfish or larger crabs. Due to their size they can become prey if housed with unsuitable tank mates.

Breeding
Breeding in captivity is rare but possible. Females carry eggs under their abdomen and release miniature fully formed crabs rather than larvae. Dense plants and moss are important for baby survival. Stable water conditions and minimal disturbance increase breeding success.

General Care and Health
Thai Micro Spider Crabs are sensitive to sudden changes in water parameters copper medications and poor water quality. Regular small water changes and a mature established aquarium are strongly recommended. Provide calcium sources through diet to support healthy molting.

Summary
The Thai Micro Spider Crab is a fascinating nano freshwater crab with a unique spider like form. When kept in a calm well planted aquarium with excellent water quality it can thrive and become an interesting centerpiece for small peaceful tanks.