Graphite Grey Vampire Crab

Common Name: Graphite Grey Vampire Crab
Scientific Name: Geosesarma dennerle

Adult Size: Carapace roughly 2–2.5cm; overall span often 4–6cm
Native Range: Central Java, Indonesia

Enclosure: Secure-lidded paludarium; mostly land with a shallow freshwater area
Heating: No basking; ambient commonly kept 22–24 °C

Humidity: Around 75–85% with good airflow; keep substrate damp with a few drier pockets

UVB: low output

Diet: Leaf litter/veg plus insect and shrimp-style proteins in rotation

Water: Dechlorinated freshwater pool with easy access in/out; keep clean with filtration or regular partial changes

ABOUT THIS SPECIES

The “Graphite Grey” vampire crab is a darker, slate-toned trade look of Geosesarma dennerle, a small, land-leaning freshwater crab from Central Java.

Don’t expect a fully aquatic crab: most of its time is spent on the land section, moving through leaf litter, plant roots and tight hides, with water used mainly for drinking and dipping.

In a densely planted set-up they’re far more likely to show themselves, especially from late afternoon into the evening, when they forage steadily and climb textured décor. Colour can shift with lighting, background and stress levels, so “graphite” shades vary between individuals, but the overall muted, smoky appearance is the appeal in naturalistic paludaria.