Red Devil Crab

The red devil crab is a small Geosesarma species scientifically described in 2015 together with the vampire crab (Geosesarma dennerle). Its shell is about 2 cm; its dark body, red-orange legs and claws and yellow eyes make it recognizable. It is semi-terrestrial: it spends most of its time on damp land and enters the water only to wet itself and feed. Because it breeds without a larval stage, producing fully formed tiny crabs, it can be bred at home.

• A paludarium: most of the floor damp land (moss, roots, dried leaves), with a section of fresh water 3–5 cm deep; an exit ramp from the water is essential.
• 22–26°C and high humidity; mist regularly.
• A tight lid; it escapes by climbing glass and cables.
• A hiding place for each individual; do not disturb it while it is molting.

Omnivorous. It eats sinking tablets, shrimp food, frozen bloodworms, small insects, blanched vegetables and pieces of fruit. Remove leftover food the next day; it molds quickly in a humid environment.

Nocturnal; males are territorial among themselves. Given the chance it catches small shrimp.

Good companions: It is best kept with its own species; snails in the water section usually have no problems.

Avoid: Fish, dwarf shrimp, other crab species (including the vampire crab).