Red Claw Crab Care: Habitat, Diet, Look, Size & All | 2024

Red Claw Crabs are a species of tropical freshwater crab native to Southeast Asia. They are also known as Thai Devil Crabs, Malaysian Crab-eating Frogs, and Vietnamese River Crabs. The Red Claw Crab is one of the giant freshwater crabs in the world.

They are popular aquarium pets due to their bright red coloration and dynamic personality. They are also straightforward to care for, making them a good choice for beginner aquarium keepers.

This guide will discuss everything you need to know about keeping Red Claw Crabs as pets. We will cover their natural habitat, diet, and care requirements.

So let’s get started!

Species Summary

Scientific Name:	Perisesarma Bidens
Common Names:	Red Claw Crab, Thai Devil Crab
Family:	Sesarmidae
Origin:	Southeast Asia
Size:	4 inches
Lifespan:	2-2.5 years
Habitat:	Freshwater streams and river
Active:	Day and night
Tank Size:	10 gallons
Temperature Range:	75°-80° Fahrenheit
pH range:	7.5-8.5
Water Type:	Soft to hard water
Water Hardness:	8 – 25 dGH
Care Level:	Easy
Temperament:	Non-aggressive
Compatibility:	Good with other fish
Tank mates:	Any small fish
Diet:	Omnivorous

Initially, these crabs were found in Southeast Asia in freshwater streams and rivers. However, they have been introduced to other parts of the world, including Japan and Fiji.

Red Claw Crab Appearance

Red Claw Crabs are stunning creatures with a bright red color. They get their name from their large, red claws. These crabs also have two smaller claws for walking and climbing. They have 10 legs, 4 of which are used for walking and 6 for swimming.

The carapace of a Red Claw Crab is complex and has a smooth texture. It is oval and can be either red, brown, or yellow. The underside of their carapace is white or cream-colored. On the two corners of their carapace, you will find their eyes. They have small black pupils and white iris.

The most identifying feature of these crabs is their large, red claws. These claws are not only used for defense but also for offense. The crab can use them to catch prey and intimidate other animals.

There are some subtle differences between male and female Red Claw Crabs. The most obvious difference is the shape of their carapace. Females have a rounder carapace, while males have a more triangular carapace. Males also have more enormous claws than females and are generally more significant.

Red Claw Crabs are also known for their playful personality. They are constantly moving around and are curious creatures.

Red Claw Crab Size & Growth Rate

The typical size of an adult Red Claw Crab is 4 inches. However, the main body of the crab is only about 2 inches long. The other 2 inches are made up of their large claws. The growth rate of these crabs is speedy. They can reach their full size in just a few months.

However, their carapace is much smaller than their body, so they continue to grow and molt throughout their lifetime. The main body of a Red Claw Crab, also called the carapace, is protected by a hard outer shell. Underneath this shell is their soft flesh, which we see when they are out of the water.

Red Claw Crab Lifespan

The average Red Claw Crab lifespan in captivity is 2-2.5 years. However, this is only possible if they receive the proper care and diet.

In the wild, their lifespan is slightly shorter, averaging around 1 year due to predation and other environmental factors.

So, in general, the lifespan of a Red Claw Crab is about half in the wild. The leading causes of death in these crabs are predators and disease.

Red Claw Crab Behavior & Temperament

Red Claw Crabs can be a great addition to any home aquarium. They are a hardy species that is easy to care for.

They are typically very active and playful. They love to explore their surroundings and will spend hours climbing and playing in their tank. They are also known for their outgoing personality. They will often approach people in their tanks and are unafraid to be held.

While Red Claw Crabs make excellent pets, there are a few things to remember before you decide to add one to your home.

They are known to escape from their tanks, so ensuring their tank is secure is essential.

A Red Claw Crab may be a perfect choice if you are looking for a hardy, active, and playful pet. Remember their potential for escape and aggression; you will have a great pet that will enjoy years of enjoyment.

Red Claw Crab Breeding

Red Claw Crabs can be bred in the home aquarium with little effort.

To breed Red Claw Crabs, you will need the following:

• A tank: The first step is to set up a tank for your crabs. The tank should have at least 10 gallons and plenty of places for the crabs to hide.
• A filter: The next step is to set up a filter for your tank. This will help keep the water clean and make breathing easier for the crabs.
• An air pump: The next step is to set up an air pump for your tank. This will help keep the water oxygenated and make breathing easier for the crabs.
• A heat lamp: The next step is to set up a heat lamp for your tank. This will help keep the water warm and make it easier for the crabs to breed.
• Gravel: The next step is to add some gravel to your tank. This will help keep the water clean and provide a place for the crabs to lay their eggs.
• Plants: The next step is to add some plants to your tank. This will provide a place for the crabs to hide.
• A sponge: The next step is to add a sponge to your tank. This will help to keep the water clean.

You must add a male and a female crab to the tank to breed the crabs. The crabs will mate, and the female will lay eggs on the gravel. The eggs will incubate for about two weeks, and then the baby crabs will hatch.

The baby crabs will then need to be fed a diet of brine shrimp and crushed coral. They must also be kept in a separate tank until they are big enough to be added to the main tank.

If you follow these steps, you should have no problem breeding Red Claw Crabs in your home aquarium. Make sure to do your research and be prepared for the process, and you will succeed.

The best time to breed Red Claw Crabs is during the spring or summer when the water is warm.

Red Claw Crab Care Guide

Red Claw Crab care is not complex, but there are a few things that you need to know to keep them healthy and happy.

You can’t just pop them in any tank and expect them to do well. They require a specific environment with the correct water conditions to thrive.

Their habitats should consist of both land and water. This is because they need to be able to access both to fulfill all of their needs. The good news is that they can be kept in various fresh and saltwater tanks.

Red Claw Crab Tank Size

The first thing you need to do when setting up a habitat for your Red Claw Crab is to choose the right size tank. They should have at least 10 gallons of space per crab. But the bigger, the better. They are very active creatures and love to explore, so they need plenty of space to roam around.

While they’re not the best swimmers, they still need a place to swim and bathe. So the tank should have a water area at least 2 inches deep.

When setting up your tank, you must ensure it has land and water areas. This can be accomplished using an aquarium with a built-in filter or adding a separate filter to the tank.

Red Claw Crab Water Parameters

Maintaining the correct water conditions in your Red Claw Crab habitat is crucial. They are susceptible to changes in water quality, and even the slightest change can be fatal.

The water should be clean and free of any ammonia or nitrites. It should also be well-oxygenated. The best way to achieve this is by using a bubbler or an air stone. The temperature of the water should be between 70°-88°Fahrenheit.

The pH of the water should be between 7.5-8.5. Maintaining a consistent level of humidity in the tank is also essential. The humidity should be between 75-85%.

The water hardness for a Red Claw Crab habitat should be between 8-25 dGH.

It’s also essential to change the water regularly. This helps to keep the water clean and free of toxins. A good rule of thumb is to change at least 25% of the water weekly.

In addition to regular water changes, you must provide your crabs with a freshwater dip once a week. This helps to keep them healthy and free of parasites.

To do a freshwater dip, fill a container with dechlorinated water at the same temperature as the water in their tank. Then, slowly lower them into the container and let them soak for 10-15 minutes.

Filtration

As I mentioned before, it’s essential to maintain the correct water conditions in your Red Claw Crab habitat. One of the best ways to do this is by using a filter.

A quality filter will help keep the water clean and toxins-free. It will also help to maintain a consistent level of humidity and temperature. There are a variety of filters on the market, so you should be able to find one that fits your specific needs.

When choosing a filter for your Red Claw Crab habitat, you must ensure it is rated for a size or larger tank.

Some recommended filters for a Red Claw Crab habitat are:

• The AquaClear 20 Hang-On Back Filter: This filter is perfect for up to 20 gallons of tanks. It’s a top-rated filter because it’s energy-efficient and quiet.
• The AquaTech EZ-Change Filter: It would be best for tanks up to 30 gallons. It’s easy to use and has a built-in indicator that tells you when the filter needs to be changed.
• The Fluval Edge Power Filter: This filter is excellent for tanks up to 45 gallons. It’s a powerful filter that does an excellent job of keeping the water clean.

Heating

As I mentioned earlier, the water temperature for a Red Claw Crab habitat should be between 70-88 degrees Fahrenheit. The best way to achieve this is by using a heater.

There are a variety of heaters on the market, so you should be able to find one that fits your specific needs. When choosing a heater for your Red Claw Crab habitat, you must ensure it is rated for a size or larger tank.

Some recommended heaters for a Red Claw Crab habitat are:

• The Hydor ETH In-Line External Heater is perfect for tanks up to 30 gallons. It’s straightforward to install and has adjustable temperature control.
• The Marineland Precision Heater would be best for up to 50 gallons of tanks. It’s very accurate and has a built-in thermostat.
• The Eheim Jager Aquarium Heater is excellent for tanks up to 60 gallons. It’s very durable and has a wide temperature range.

Lighting

For Red Claw Crabs, it is essential to provide a light source that simulates their natural habitat. The best way to do this is by using a full-spectrum LED light.

Full-spectrum LED lights are very energy efficient and produce very little heat. They also provide the perfect light for a Red Claw Crab habitat.

Some recommended full-spectrum LED lights for a Red Claw Crab habitat are:

• The Zoo Med Reptisun LED UVB Lamp: It’s a very affordable lamp and easy to install, and this light is perfect for tanks up to 20 gallons.
• The Fluval Plant 3.0 LED Light: It’s very stylish and has a built-in timer, and it would be best for 50 gallons.
• The Marineland Reef Capable LED Light: This LED light is perfect for tanks up to 75 gallons. It’s mighty and has a wide variety of settings.

Co2 System

As I mentioned earlier, it’s essential to maintain the correct water conditions in your Red Claw Crab habitat. One of the best ways to do this is by using a CO2 system.

A CO2 system will help keep the water clean and toxins-free. It will also help to maintain a consistent level of humidity and temperature. There are a variety of CO2 systems on the market, so you should be able to find one that fits your specific needs.

When choosing a CO2 system for your Red Claw Crab habitat, you must ensure that it is rated for a size or larger tank.

Some recommended CO2 systems for a Red Claw Crab habitat are:

• The AquaVista 500 Aquarium CO2 System is perfect for up to 50 gallons of tanks. It’s straightforward to use and comes with everything you need to start.
• The Fluval Plant and Shrimp CO2 Kit would be the best kit for tanks up to 30 gallons. It’s very affordable and easy to install.
• The AquaCare In-Tank CO2 System: It’s a very compact system and easy to use. This system is perfect for tanks up to 20 gallons.

Substrate

The substrate is the material you use to line the bottom of your Red Claw Crab habitat. The best substrate for a Red Claw Crab habitat is a mixture of sand and soil.

This mixture will provide the perfect environment for your crabs to burrow and hide. It will also help to keep the humidity level high.

When choosing a substrate for your Red Claw Crab habitat, you must ensure that it is rated for a size or larger tank.

Some recommended substrates for a Red Claw Crab habitat are:

• The CaribSea Eco-Complete Sand: This sand is perfect for tanks up to 55 gallons. It’s very affordable and comes in a variety of colors.
• The Fluval Stratum Planted Aquarium Substrate: This substrate is best for up to 30 gallons of tanks. It’s straightforward to use and helps to promote plant growth.
• The Aqua Culture Aquarium Substrate: It’s a very affordable substrate and comes in various colors. This substrate is perfect for tanks up to 20 gallons.

Aquascaping

Red Claw Crabs are very active. They love to climb and explore their habitat. One way to allow them to do this is by using an aqua-scaping kit. Aqua scaping kits come with various decorations that you can use to create a unique habitat for your crabs.

When choosing an aqua scaping kit for your Red Claw Crab habitat, you must ensure that it is rated for a size or larger tank.

Some recommended aqua-scaping kits for a Red Claw Crab habitat are:

• The Marineland Aquascape LED Kit
• The Fluval Aqua Scape II Aquarium Kit
• The Aqua Culture 3-in-1 Aquarium Decoration Set

Decorations

As I mentioned earlier, Red Claw Crabs are very active. They love to climb and explore their habitat. One way to allow them to do this is by using decorations. Decorations can be anything from rocks to plants to driftwood.

When choosing decorations for your Red Claw Crab habitat, you must ensure they are rated for a size or larger tank.

Some recommended decorations for a Red Claw Crab habitat are:

• The Zoo Med Reptile Rock Outcropping
• The Exo Terra Naturalistic Terrarium Plant
• The Fluval Sea Driftwood

Plants

Red Claw Crabs love to explore their habitat. One way to allow them to do this is by using plants. When choosing plants for your Red Claw Crab habitat, you must ensure they are rated for size or larger tank.

Some recommended plants for a Red Claw Crab habitat are:

• The Java Fern
• The Anubias Nana
• The Crypt Wendtii

Other Tank Accessories

In addition to substrates, aqua-scaping kits, decorations, and plants, there are a few other tank accessories that you may want to consider for your Red Claw Crab habitat.

Some of these accessories include:

• An air stone: An air stone can help provide your crabs with the oxygen they need.
• A Thirsty Beast Automatic Water Mister: A water mister can help to keep your crabs hydrated.
• A thermometer: A thermometer can help you monitor your tank’s temperature.
• Phosphate Remover: Phosphates can be harmful to your crabs. If you have high levels of phosphates in your tank, you may want to consider using a phosphate remover.

Water Changes

Red Claw Crabs require clean water to thrive. It’s important to perform water changes regularly. How often you perform water changes will depend on the size of your tank, the type of substrate you are using, and the number of crabs you are keeping.

Generally, it would help if you aimed to perform a water change at least once a week. When changing the water in your tank, you should always use a dechlorinator. This will help to remove the chlorine from the water and protect your crabs’ sensitive gills.

Some recommended dechlorinators for a Red Claw Crab habitat are:

• The API Tap Water Conditioner
• The Tetra AquaSafe Plus
• The Seachem Prime

Cleaning The Tank

In addition to water changes, you will also need to clean your tank regularly. How often you clean your tank will depend on the size of your tank, the type of substrate you are using, and the number of crabs you are keeping.

Generally, it would be best to clean your tank at least once a month. You should remove any excess food, waste, or debris when cleaning your tank. You may also consider vacuuming the gravel to remove any waste build-up.

If you have live plants in your tank, you must be careful not to damage them when cleaning.

Cleaning The Filter

It’s also essential to clean your filter regularly. How often you clean your filter will depend on the size of your tank, the type of filter you are using, and the number of crabs you are keeping. Generally, it would be best if you aimed to clean your filter at least once a month.

When cleaning your filter, you should remove any build-up of waste. You may also want to consider changing the filter media.

Testing The Water

It’s essential to test the water in your tank regularly. This will help you monitor the water parameters and ensure they are within the recommended range for Red Claw Crabs.

Some of the parameters you should test for include the following:

• Ammonia: Ammonia can be harmful to your crabs. You may need to take corrective action if the levels are too high.
• pH: The pH of your tank should be between 7.0 and 8.5. You may need to take corrective action if the pH exceeds this range.
• Nitrite: Nitrite can also be harmful to your crabs. You may need to take corrective action if the levels are too high.
• Carbonate Hardness: The carbonate hardness of your tank should be between 100 and 300 ppm. You may need corrective action if the carbonate hardness exceeds this range.
• Nitrate: Nitrate is not harmful to your crabs in small amounts. However, you may need corrective action if the levels are too high.
• General Hardness: The general hardness of your tank should be between 100 and 300 ppm. You may need corrective action if the general hardness exceeds this range.

Red Claw Crab Common Possible Diseases

Red Claw Crabs can be susceptible to several different diseases.

Some of the most common diseases include:

• Viral Hemorrhagic Septicemia (VHS): VHS is a highly contagious virus that can be fatal to your crabs.
• Pseudomonas: Pseudomonas is a bacteria that can cause skin lesions and eye infections.
• Lymphocystis: Lymphocystis is a virus that can cause tumors on the claws and legs of your crabs.
• Crustacean Parvovirus: Crustacean parvovirus is a virus that can cause death in young crabs.

You should take corrective action immediately if you notice any of these diseases in your crabs.

Red Claw Crab Preventing Diseases

Maintaining clean and healthy tank conditions is the best way to prevent diseases. This means performing regular water changes, cleaning the tank and filter regularly, and testing the water regularly.

You should also quarantine new crabs before adding them to your main tank. This will help to ensure that they are not carrying any diseases that could infect your other crabs.

Some of the best ways to quarantine new crabs include:

• Keeping them in a separate tank
• Keeping them in a separate enclosure
• Keeping them in a separate area of the tank

If you do not have a separate tank or enclosure, you should consider using a divider to isolate them from the rest of your crabs.

Red Claw Crab Treatment And Medications Of Diseases

You should take corrective action immediately if you notice any disease in your crabs. This may involve treating the tank with medication or removing the affected crabs to a separate tank.

Some of the best medications for treating diseases include:

• Copper: Copper is an effective treatment for many diseases. However, it can also be harmful to your crabs.
• Aquarium Salt: Aquarium salt can be used to treat a variety of diseases.
• Quarantine Copper Sulfate: Quarantine copper sulfate is a medication that can treat many diseases, including VHS.

If you are unsure which medication or treatment to use, consult your veterinarian or an aquarium specialist. You can help keep your Red Claw Crabs healthy and happy with some care.

Red Claw Crab Food & Diet

Red Claw Crabs are omnivores. This means that they need a diet that consists of both plants and animals. One way to provide your crabs with the nutrition they need is by using pellets.

Pellets are a type of food that is specifically made for these crabs. When choosing pellets for your crabs, it is essential to select a high-quality brand.

Some of the best pellets for Red Claw Crabs include:

• Zoo Med Crab Food: Zoo Med Crab Food is a high-quality pellet specifically made for Red Claw Crabs.
• Fluker’s Crab Pellets: Fluker’s Crab Pellets are another excellent option for Red Claw Crabs.
• Exo Terra Crab Cuisine: Exo Terra Crab Cuisine is a pellet made from high-quality ingredients.
• TetraMin Tropical Crisps: TetraMin Tropical Crisps are an excellent option for Red Claw Crabs.

Pellets should make up a small portion of your crabs’ diet. The rest of their diet should consist of fresh fruits and vegetables and live or frozen foods.

Some of the best fruits and vegetables for Red Claw Crabs include:

• Zucchini: Zucchini is a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
• Spinach: Spinach is a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as magnesium and potassium.
• Kale: Kale is a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium and iron.
• Carrots: Carrots are a good source of vitamin A and fiber.
• Apples: Apples are a good source of vitamin A.
• Grapes: Grapes are a good source of vitamins A and C.
• Cranberries: Cranberries are a good source of vitamin C.

Live or frozen foods are a great way to give your crabs the protein they need.

Some of the best live and frozen foods for Red Claw Crabs include:

• Bloodworms: These small, red worms are a favorite food of Red Claw Crabs. They can be found at most pet stores. They are also available as frozen food.
• Mysis shrimp: Mysis shrimp are a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids. They can be found at most pet stores.
• Mealworms: Mealworms are a good source of protein. They can be found at most pet stores.
• Wingless fruit flies: wingless fruit flies are a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. They can be found at most pet stores.
• Earthworms: Earthworms are a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. They can be found at most bait shops.
• Grasshoppers: Grasshoppers are a good source of protein. They can be found at most pet stores.
• Crickets: Crickets are a good source of protein. They can be found at most pet stores.

Diet Foods To Avoid

There are a few types of food that you should avoid feeding your Red Claw Crabs.

These foods include:

• Raw meat can contain harmful bacteria that can make your crabs sick.
• Uncooked eggs- uncooked eggs can also contain harmful bacteria.
• Tuna- tuna contains high levels of mercury, which can harm your crabs.
• Shellfish- shellfish can contain toxins that can be harmful to your crabs.

Commercial crab food- commercial crab food is often high in sodium and can make your crabs sick.

It is essential to always consult with a veterinarian or an aquarium specialist before starting any new diet for your Red Claw Crab. They can help you determine the best diet for your crab based on its needs.

Red Claw Crab Feeding Schedule

When feeding your Red Claw Crab, it is essential to create a feeding schedule. This will help you ensure your crab gets the nutrition it needs.

A good feeding schedule for Red Claw Crabs includes:

• Feeding once a day: Feeding your crab once a day is adequate.
• Offering a variety of foods: Offer your crab a variety to ensure it gets the nutrients it needs.
• Providing a balanced diet: Make sure your crab’s diet is balanced and includes pellets and fresh fruits and vegetables.
• Avoid overfeeding: Overfeeding can lead to health problems for your crab.

A healthy diet is essential for all pets, and Red Claw Crabs are no exception. By following a few simple guidelines, you can ensure that your crab stays healthy and happy.

Red Claw Crab Tank Mates

Regarding your Red Claw Crab tank mates, there are a few things to remember. Red Claw Crabs can be aggressive toward other animals, so keeping them with other peaceful species is essential. For this reason, it is often best to only keep one Red Claw Crab per tank.

Some good tank mates for your Red Claw Crab include:

• Tetras
• Guppies
• Mollies

• Fish: Fish is a good choice for a tank mate for your Red Claw Crab. They are typically peaceful and will not bother your crab. Just make sure that you choose a fish that is not too small, as Red Claw Crabs may see them as food
• Hermit Crabs: Hermit crabs are an excellent choice for a tank mate for your Red Claw Crab. They are typically peaceful and will not bother your crab. Just make sure to choose a hermit crab the same size or larger than your Red Claw Crab, as Red Claw Crabs may see them as food.
• Snails: Snails are another excellent choice for a tank mate for your Red Claw Crab. They are typically peaceful and will not bother your crab. Just make sure to choose a snail that is not too small, as Red Claw Crabs may see them as food.

When choosing tank mates for your Red Claw Crab, it is essential only to choose peaceful species. They can be aggressive, and you don’t want to endanger other animals. Just do your research and choose wisely, and you will have a great tank mate for your Red Claw Crab.

Advantages Of Having Red Claw Crab In Your Tank

The first advantage of having a Red Claw Crab in your tank is that they are a very peaceful species. For this reason, it is often best to only keep one Red Claw Crab per tank.

Another advantage is that they are omnivorous and will eat various things. This means you don’t have to worry about them not getting enough food, as they will eat just about anything.

A Red Claw Crab is also very active and will often be seen climbing around the tank. This can entertain you and your family as the crab explores its new home.

Red Claw Crabs are also very easy to care for and are very hardy. This means that they are an excellent choice for beginner aquarium enthusiasts.

Disadvantages Of Having Red Claw Crab In Your Tank

One disadvantage of having a Red Claw Crab in your tank is that they are timid and will often hide. This can make it challenging to get a good look at them and make it difficult to feed them.

Another disadvantage is that they are known to be aggressive. This means that they may attack and kill other tank mates.

For these reasons, it is essential to do your research before adding a Red Claw Crab to your tank. Ensure you know what you are getting into, and be prepared for the possible consequences.

Conclusion

Overall, Red Claw Crabs make a great addition to any aquarium. They are peaceful, easy to care for, and very active. Please research before adding one to your tank, as they can be aggressive. With a little bit of knowledge and preparation, you will be successful in keeping a Red Claw Crab in your home aquarium.

I hope this guide was helpful. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact us.

Thanks for reading!