Tomato Vampire Crab (Geosesarma sp.)

IMPORTANT: State Shipping Restrictions

Due to state regulations, Vampire Crabs cannot be shipped to Maine.

IMPORTANT: Vampire Crab Habitat Requirements

Vampire Crabs are semi-terrestrial animals and are NOT fully aquatic. They require a paludarium with both land and freshwater areas and should not be maintained in a traditional aquarium. We also recommend keeping only a single Vampire Crab species per enclosure.

B-Grade Notice: Vampire Crabs occasionally arrive with minor cosmetic imperfections, less developed coloration, or regenerating limbs resulting from normal molting and social behaviors. These conditions are typically cosmetic and do not affect the overall health of the animal.

Species Overview

The Tomato Vampire Crab is a stunning member of the Geosesarma genus known for its warm red, orange-red, and tomato-colored appearance. While coloration can vary between individuals, this species is prized for its rich coloration and vivid yellow eyes that create a striking contrast within tropical paludariums and bioactive enclosures.

Unlike many aquarium inhabitants that spend their lives underwater, Tomato Vampire Crabs thrive in humid terrestrial environments where they spend much of their time climbing, exploring, and foraging among leaf litter, driftwood, mosses, and tropical plants. Their active nature and vibrant colors make them exceptional display animals for hobbyists seeking a unique paludarium centerpiece.

Like many Vampire Crabs, coloration can vary based on age, sex, genetics, molt cycle, diet, and environmental conditions. Some individuals display brighter orange-red coloration while others develop deeper red tones. Mature males often exhibit more intense coloration than females, and many hobbyists observe improved color development following successful molts.

What We Love About This Crab

• Beautiful tomato-red to orange-red coloration

• Active and entertaining personality

• Excellent choice for bioactive paludariums

• Displays natural climbing and foraging behaviors

Quick Care Guide

• Care Level: Moderate

• Temperament: Generally Peaceful

• Diet: Omnivorous Scavenger

• Origin: Indonesia

• Adult Size: Approximately 1–1.5 Inches (2.5–3.8 cm)

• Average Purchase Size: Approximately 0.75–1 Inch (1.9–2.5 cm)

• Lifespan: Typically 2–3 Years or Longer

• Activity Level: Most Active During Morning, Evening, and Nighttime Hours

• Social Behavior: Best Kept in Groups

• Recommended Group Size: 3–6 Individuals

Tank Parameters

• Habitat Type: Semi-Terrestrial Paludarium

• Minimum Enclosure Size: 10 Gallons

• Temperature Range: 72–82°F (22–28°C)

• Humidity Range: 75–90%

• pH Range: 6.5–8.0

• General Hardness (GH): 4–16 dGH (120–300 ppm)

• Water Type: Freshwater

• Recommended Land Area: 70–80%

• Recommended Water Area: 20–30%