Blue Borneo Crab

Common Name: Blue Borneo Crab
Scientific Name: Lepidothelphusa menneri

Adult Size: Approx. 3–4cm carapace width
Native Range: West Kalimantan (Gunung Kelam, Sintang Regency), Indonesian Borneo

Enclosure: Paludarium (not fully aquatic); minimum 60 × 45 × 45 cm for a small group, more floor space preferred
Heating: 

Humidity: 75%+ with good airflow; damp substrate with leaf litter and hides

Diet: Omnivore with a protein bias; mixed meaty foods plus quality pellets as support

Water: Freshwater section must be clean, oxygenated, and gently moving; dechlorinated, with easy access in/out

ABOUT THIS SPECIES

Lepidothelphusa menneri is a small, semi-terrestrial freshwater crab from rainforest stream margins in West Kalimantan. In life it’s known for a distinctive multi-tone look (often sold under “blue”, “tricolour”, or “rainbow” labels), with individuals showing different mixes of pale carapace, red legs and cooler accent colours.

It naturally lives at the land–water interface around shaded, mineral-rich, flowing water, using leaf litter and soft banks for shelter. In captivity, the key is offering lots of ground-level cover and a stable, well-oxygenated freshwater area rather than a deep aquarium-style setup.

When settled, you’ll see them most around the waterline—picking through litter, climbing over roots and hardscape, and retreating quickly if the enclosure is too open.