Vampire Crab Geosesarma bogorensis

Geosesarma bogorensis takes its name from the Bogor region of West Java, Indonesia, where it inhabits the humid forest floor near small streams and seepages. Its coloration is more subdued than some congeners — running from olive-brown to deep charcoal-grey — but its bright yellow eyes remain a striking visual feature and help distinguish it from superficially similar species.

In captivity, G. bogorensis benefits greatly from a bioactive paludarium setup: a living substrate of tropical soil seeded with springtails and isopods helps maintain hygiene while providing natural foraging opportunities. Dense moss coverage, cork bark shelters, and a healthy layer of leaf litter replicate the species' natural microhabitat closely and promote natural foraging behaviour.

This species is relatively robust and tolerates a slightly cooler temperature range than some equatorial Geosesarma, making it compatible with species from slightly higher altitudes. It is a direct developer with a brooding period of approximately four to six weeks. Calcium availability is important for successful molting and should be provided via cuttlebone or calcium-rich food items.

Water: 23–27°C, pH 7.2–8.0, GH 5–15, KH 2–10; shallow section; bioactive setup recommended. Tank: minimum 30 L paludarium; bioactive tropical soil, living moss, deep leaf litter, cork bark, cuttlebone accessible. Feeding: omnivore — dried insects, fruit flies, leaf litter, blanched vegetables, sinking pellets; feed every 1–2 days. Breeding: direct developer; female broods for 4–6 weeks; juveniles independent upon emergence. Compatibility: 1 male to 2–3 females; do not mix with fish; males may compete if space is insufficient.