Vampire Crab sp. 'Red Devil'

The Vampire Crab sp. 'Red Devil' is among the most striking trade forms of undescribed Geosesarma available in the hobby. Its deep blood-red to crimson carapace coloration is intense and uniform, creating a visually powerful display that contrasts dramatically with the species' vivid yellow eyes and dark chelae.

Like all Geosesarma, this form is semi-terrestrial and must be kept in a paludarium setup offering both moist land and a shallow water section. The intensity of the red coloration is best maintained by providing optimal conditions: correct temperature and humidity ranges, a varied diet with carotenoid-rich foods, and clean, mineral-balanced water in the shallow water section.

The 'Red Devil' name is purely a trade designation and does not reflect aggressive behaviour — this form is no more aggressive than other vampire crabs and can be kept peacefully in correctly structured groups. It is a direct developer and breeds readily in well-maintained enclosures. Males can be distinguished by their narrower abdominal flap and are typically slightly smaller than females.

Water: 23–28°C, pH 7.5–8.0, GH 6–15, KH 3–10; shallow water 3–5 cm; dechlorinated, mineral-balanced. Tank: minimum 30 L paludarium; moist tropical substrate, dense moss, cork bark, leaf litter; secure escape-proof lid. Feeding: omnivore — carotenoid-rich foods (dried krill, carrot), dried insects, blanched greens, sinking pellets. Breeding: direct developer; female broods eggs 4–6 weeks; miniature juveniles independent from hatching. Compatibility: 1 male to 2–3 females; do not house with fish; males may fight if multiple males are present.