Red Clawed Crab (Perisesarma bidens)
Description
The Red Clawed Crab (Perisesarma bidens) is an eye-catching and fascinating species of freshwater crab, known for its vibrant red claws and active nature. Native to brackish waters of Southeast Asia, this species is both hardy and entertaining to observe, making it a popular choice for aquariums with a bit of extra space. They are semi-terrestrial and enjoy climbing on rocks, plants, and decorations in the tank, adding movement and interest to the aquatic environment.
Key Features
- Scientific Name: Perisesarma bidens
- Common Name: Red Clawed Crab
- Size: Up to 3 inches (7.5 cm)
- Temperament: Semi-aggressive; may be territorial
- Lifespan: 2-3 years with proper care
- Diet: Omnivorous – enjoys a variety of foods, including commercial crab pellets, small invertebrates, plant matter, and occasional treats like brine shrimp and bloodworms.
- Tank Level: Primarily bottom-dweller, but will climb on decorations and tank walls
Tank Requirements
- Tank Size: Minimum 10-20 gallons for a small group
- Water Temperature: 72°F to 82°F (22°C to 28°C)
- pH Range: 7.0 to 8.0
- Water Hardness: 8-12 dGH
- Salinity: Slightly brackish water is ideal, but they can tolerate freshwater conditions with proper care.
- Substrate: Sand or fine gravel to allow easy burrowing and movement.
- Tank Setup: Provide hiding spots, caves, rocks, and plenty of climbing opportunities to replicate their natural habitat. Aquatic plants should be hardy, as these crabs may occasionally nibble on them.
Care Tips
- Red Clawed Crabs are semi-terrestrial and require both land and water areas in their tank, with a dry area where they can climb out of the water and molt.
- Maintain good water quality and perform regular water changes to keep them healthy.
- These crabs can be territorial, so ensure plenty of hiding spots to reduce aggression between individuals.
- Ensure the tank has a secure lid as these crabs are known to escape if the opportunity arises.
Compatibility
Due to their territorial nature, Red Clawed Crabs should be kept with peaceful fish and other crabs or invertebrates that won't bother them, such as:
- Peaceful fish (e.g., small tetras or guppies)
- Snails (e.g., Nerite Snails)
- Other semi-aggressive freshwater crabs (with caution)
Why Choose Red Clawed Crabs?
The Red Clawed Crab is a lively and hardy addition to any freshwater or brackish aquarium. Their striking appearance and interesting behavior provide endless entertainment, and their semi-terrestrial lifestyle offers a unique dynamic for aquarists who enjoy maintaining diverse environments.
Though commonly labeled as a "freshwater crab," it thrives best in brackish for long-term health and well-being for this gorgeous invert.
**Note that crabs and other inverts may be shipped with USPS Priority though there is no live arrival guaranteed with this method**
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Red claw cuties!!
Absolutely love them !!!! Waiting on my last one to arrive and the Fab 5 will be complete ?
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Great
Arrived on time and affordable don’t get if you are trying to see them a lot in a big or small crowded tank but great price
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Freshwater crabs
These carbs arrived live Beautiful color and healthy I would purchase this product again .
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2nd time ordering and love them
This site is the best for buying these crabs! This is my second time ordering from this site! I asked for 2 girls and 2 boys- and I got them
All the legs and claws in tact! This is super awesome you cam ship them to MN! I have can't find these in any stores around me, let alone one with all the limbs. Thank you for the great service, quality care in shipping! My crabitat (habitat for crabs) is growing! -
Healthy Crabs
Got 3 very healthy looking crabs. They were in perfect condition and delivery was quick.
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Red Claw Crabs
Great packing(1crab per bag with sponge was great shipping/communication. 50% of livestock was damaged. 2 crabs were missing 1 claw & 1 was missing both & is struggling to survive. Claws were not in bag/lost due to shipping stress. Would have hoped for better liveatock quality or notification & request of acceptance for deaffective live stock but method of shipping was great
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Red Claw Crab
Ordered a female crab and was very pleased that I got just what I wanted. She was shipped to me and arrived in wonderful condition. All limbs and claws intact. She seems happy with her tank mates. 10/10 would order from them again.
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3 died overnight
Sadly, within 24hrs of receiving my order of 6 red claws, 3 of them died. Water perimeters are the same as that of my fiddlers (who are thriving), so I have no idea what happened. I'm just really sad, because one that I lost was a large male, with beautiful ruby claws.
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Fun to watch and so adorable!
It's impossible to find these crabbies in Minneapolis. I was skeptical ordering crabs online, but they were here fast and in perfect condition! No missing legs or claws! I got 3 females and 1 male! I couldn't be happier and will be buying from you again!!
Thank you so much!!
