Although Vampire crabs (Geosesarma dennerle) are relatively new to the hobby, they have already become rising in their popularity as ornamental species in recent years. The only problem with Geosesarma species is that their ecology and biology is still poorly studied. As a result, there is a lot of wrong information or downright confusion when it comes to caring for them.
Vampire crabs are not freshwater crabs, they are semi-terrestrial animals. These crabs are sociable, omnivorous, pretty hardy and easy to care for.
They were first introduced in 2006. Since then there has been an increasing number of colorful land-dwelling crabs sold for the ornamental fish trade in Europe, Asia, and America going under the name “Vampire crabs”.
NameVampire CrabOther Names
Vampire, Geosesarma sb Scientific NameGeosesarma dennerleTypeSemi-terrestrial crabsTank size (minimal)5 gallons (~20 liters)KeepingEasy-MediumBreedingDifficult Size of the carapace
Size across the leg span
1.5 – 2.5 cm (~1 inch)
5 cm (~2 inches)Optimal Temperature24 – 28°C  (~75°F – 82°F)Aquarium typePaludarium (aquarium that has both terrestrial and aquatic elements (freshwater)Optimal PH7.5 – 8.0 (7.0 – 8.5)Optimal KH0 – 10Optimal GH
4 – 16Humidity
75% and higherNitrateLess than 20 ppmDietOmnivorous TemperamentPeacefulLife spanup to 2 years