Vampire Crab (Geosesarma dennerle)

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.

Species Overview

The Vampire Crab (Geosesarma dennerle) is one of the most iconic and recognizable members of the Geosesarma genus. Known for its vivid purple coloration and glowing yellow eyes, this species helped introduce many hobbyists to the world of vampire crabs and remains one of the most sought-after species in the hobby today.

Its striking appearance is complemented by an active and curious personality. Vampire Crabs spend much of their time climbing, exploring, foraging, and interacting with their environment. Their brilliant coloration creates a dramatic contrast against tropical plants, driftwood, mosses, and leaf litter, making them exceptional inhabitants for bioactive paludariums.

Like many Vampire Crabs, coloration can vary somewhat between individuals based on age, sex, genetics, molt cycle, diet, and environmental conditions. Mature males often display more intense coloration than females, and many hobbyists observe improved color development as their crabs mature and complete additional molts.

What We Love About This Crab

• Brilliant purple coloration with glowing yellow eyes

• Active and curious personality

• Excellent choice for bioactive paludariums

• One of the most recognizable Vampire Crab species in the hobby

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

• Water Type: Freshwater

• Recommended Land Area: 70–80%

• Recommended Water Area: 20–30%