Geothelphusa albogilva Taiwan Mountain Crab

Geothelphusa albogilva is a notable Taiwanese freshwater crab from high-altitude mountain streams, identified by distinctive pale white spots or patches on the carapace that contrast with its darker base coloration — the albogilva epithet referencing its pale markings. It inhabits cool, fast-flowing, rocky mountain streams at elevations that impose consistent cool temperatures year-round.

In captivity, G. albogilva requires cool, clean, well-oxygenated water — temperatures above 22–23°C may stress the species, and heating is generally unnecessary or counterproductive in temperate rooms. The aquarium should be furnished with rocky caves, boulder piles, and coarse gravel to replicate the substrate of its highland stream habitat. Strong water movement and filtration are important.

Like other Geothelphusa, this species is a direct developer, with females brooding large-yolked eggs to full-term miniature juveniles without any free-swimming larval phase. It is territorial and should be kept individually or in a very spacious tank with abundant separated territories. Its unusual white-spotted patterning makes it particularly desirable among collectors of Asian freshwater crabs.

Water: 16–22°C, pH 6.8–7.8, GH 5–15, KH 2–10; cool, oxygenated; no supplemental heating in cool rooms. Tank: minimum 60 L; rocky caves, coarse gravel, good water movement; secure lid; temperate conditions. Feeding: omnivore — sinking pellets, frozen bloodworm, blanched vegetables, dried shrimp; feed every 1–2 days. Breeding: direct developer; female broods large-yolked eggs; miniature fully aquatic juveniles; no larval stage. Compatibility: one per tank unless very large; predatory on invertebrates; keep with cool-water robust fish only.