Pom Pom Crab

The Pom Pom Crab is a true novelty in aquarium keeping and a rarity. It is a freshwater crab that is characterized by its cute puffs on its claws, which is also where it gets its name. With its hairy claws it catches food particles from the water and also scraps from the ground are picked up.

Care in the aquarium

The aquarium, which has a capacity of at least 30 liters, should be equipped with fine plants near the water surface or floating plants, as the Pom Pom Crab also likes to stay among these in nature. Since crabs are good climbers, the tank should be escape-proof. A part of land is often gladly accepted, but as far as is currently known, it is not a must. This very peaceful mini crab is a group animal and should therefore be kept in a group with at least 3-5 members of its species so that it feels comfortable. Since the Pom Pom Crab also likes to bury itself in the substrate, fine substrate such as sand is optimal. Due to its small size, it is only recommended to keep this peaceful mini crab with dwarf shrimps and snails. When it comes to fish, only very small fish species such as dwarf corydoras, Microrasbora or dwarf danios of the Boraras genus come into question. Of course, it’s ideal if you offer it a species tank in which it can best express its natural behavior.

Feeding

The Pom Pom Crab is an omnivore, meaning it eats both plant-based and animal food. High-quality crab and shrimp food as well as catfish food are suitable. You can also offer it fine frozen food such as Cyclops or Artemia nauplii from time to time.

Sexual characteristics and breeding

Distinguishing the sexes is somewhat difficult in this species. When fully grown, the males are slightly larger and wider than the females. Breeding in the aquarium has probably not been successful yet, or only rarely.