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
Ordered 15, and all arrived safely, quickly, and are doing great in their tank. Process was seamless and had great communication. The little guys are definitely a good addition
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Beautiful crabs
All 6 arrived healthy and happy and great size. All are happily enjoying the tank I have set up
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love the red clawed crabs
I got 2 red clawed crabs just like I asked for in the mail. They came fast an alive an in perfect condition. They were the healthiest cutest red clawed crabs I ever have ever gotten. I got one boy red clawed crab am one girl red clawed crab just like I requested. I couldn't be more happy about the service I have gotten from pet zone an the red clawed crabs they gave me. Thanks so much pet zone. They were really happy crabs that now live happy with 2 other red clawed crabs that are one girl an one boy red clawed crabs. I suggest after owning a few of these red clawed crabs that they prefer for long life an less stress to live with 2 males an all females or one male an all femeals no more then 2 red clawed crabs per a 10 gallon tank. The red clawed crabs enjoy there space an will fight if they are living with two meny males or to close together. They enjoy lots of hiding space due to there shyness. They also do best for healthy long life an good molting in a tank that has lots of land an some water. Yes they can live under water but they enjoy there land more then water. They also do best In Breakish water that's equal salt water an fresh in order to have better molts , also I always add a little bit of calcium an iadine to there water so when they molt they have no strange looking body parts happen an it makes there shells more healthy looking. If anyone wants a essey to care for pet that is low matnence if u keep up with there tank being clean an a pet that cute an fun to watch an kids enjoy seeing them an seeing them molt the red clawed crab is a good pet for u. They do best by them self's with a couple other red clawed crabs due to them wanting to kill most others tank mates. Also no matter what never put a red clawed crab an a fiddaler crab together for they will fight until death an the red clawed crab will most likely win.also one last peace of info on the red clawed crabs make sure u have no way for them to get out of there tank ,they love to try to get out an will be good at it if there's any way for them to get out. I love owning red clawed crabs an when ever I need more pet zone is the go to place from now on.
