Mandarin Vampire Crab

Common Name: Mandarin Vampire Crab 
Scientific Name: Geosesarma dennerle

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

Enclosure: Secure-lidded paludarium; mostly land with a shallow freshwater area
Heating: ambient 22–24 °C

Humidity: 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 “Mandarin” vampire crab is a warm orange trade colour form sold under Geosesarma dennerle, a small, land-leaning freshwater crab from Central Java that suits planted paludarium displays.

When settled, they spend most of their time on the land section threading through leaf litter and roots, climbing textured hardscape, and ducking into tight cover between foraging runs. They’re typically most active from late afternoon into the evening, especially once the enclosure is dense with hides and shaded pathways.

Although they need freshwater available, they usually use it for drinking and dipping rather than living fully aquatic, so land space and cover tend to make the biggest difference to confidence and visibility. Colour intensity varies between individuals and can shift under different lighting and backgrounds.