Apricot Vampire Crab

Common Name: Apricot 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 section
Heating: No basking; 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 “Apricot” vampire crab is a trade colour label for Geosesarma dennerle, a small, land-leaning freshwater crab from Central Java that really shines in planted paludarium displays. Individuals vary, but the appeal is the warm apricot-to-orange tones set against darker body colour and bright eyes.

They’re most confident when the enclosure is cluttered with leaf litter, moss, cork and roots, giving them multiple tight retreats and shaded pathways. Expect the busiest periods from late afternoon into the evening, with steady foraging, short climbs and plenty of time tucked away between outings.

Although they need access to freshwater, they typically use it for drinking and dipping rather than living fully aquatic, so land area and cover matter more than water depth.