Pom Pom Crab (Ptychognathus barbatus)

The pom pom crab is a fascinating small freshwater crab from Southeast Asia that waves tufts of anemone-like structures on its claws, creating the appearance of holding miniature pompoms. These tufts are actually bryozoans or sponge-like organisms that the crab actively cultivates and uses to trap microscopic food particles. A truly unique aquarium inhabitant best kept in a mature, low-flow freshwater nano tank.