African Mud Crab Potamonautes sp. 'Tanzania'

The African Mud Crab Potamonautes sp. 'Tanzania' is an undescribed or informally traded species of Potamonautes from East African Tanzania, collected from rivers, streams, and marshy habitats across the country. The Potamonautidae family is highly diverse in East Africa, with Tanzania representing a centre of diversity for freshwater potamid crabs, many of which remain undescribed.

In captivity, this species is maintained as fully aquatic, though a slightly raised emersed area or exposed bank above the waterline reduces stress and supports natural behaviour. Like other Potamonautes, it is territorial and should generally be kept one per tank unless the enclosure is very large with multiple separated rocky territories. A secure lid is important.

This crab is an opportunistic omnivore in the wild, consuming invertebrates, plant material, organic detritus, and carrion. In captivity it adapts readily to sinking pellets, frozen meaty foods, and blanched vegetables. Water temperature should reflect its tropical East African origins. It is a direct developer, with females brooding eggs to fully formed aquatic juveniles.

Water: 22–27°C, pH 7.0–8.0, GH 5–18, KH 2–12; good filtration; weekly partial water changes essential. Tank: minimum 80 L; rocky caves, fine gravel or sand, robust filtration; emersed bank optional; weighted secure lid. Feeding: omnivore — sinking pellets, frozen bloodworm, mussel, blanched vegetables, dried shrimp; feed every 1–2 days. Breeding: direct developer; female broods eggs under abdomen; fully aquatic juveniles on release. Compatibility: one per tank; predatory on invertebrates and small fish; keep with robust larger fish only.