{"title":"Crabs \u0026 Crayfish","description":null,"products":[{"product_id":"panther-crab-parathelphusa-pantherina-3cm","title":"Panther Crab Parathelphusa Pantherina 3cm","description":"\u003ch4\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOverview\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Panther Crab is a fully aquatic freshwater crab with a cream to orange shell covered in bold black spots, like a leopard's coat. It is endemic to Lake Matano on Sulawesi, Indonesia, an ancient lake with warm, hard, alkaline water. Bold and active, it suits keepers with a dedicated warm crab tank and an interest in unusual invertebrates.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003eAdult Size:\u003c\/em\u003e Carapace 4–7 cm (1.5–3 in); leg span to 12 cm (5 in)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003eLifespan:\u003c\/em\u003e 3–5 years\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003eNative to:\u003c\/em\u003e Lake Matano, Sulawesi, Indonesia\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003eHabitat:\u003c\/em\u003e Rocky lake shallows with caves and crevices; clear warm water\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFeeding\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003eDiet:\u003c\/em\u003e Omnivorous, leaning carnivorous\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003ePreferred Foods:\u003c\/em\u003e Sinking pellets, frozen shrimp, bloodworm, algae wafers, blanched carrot, courgette\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003eFeeding Habits:\u003c\/em\u003e Feed small portions every other day; include calcium-rich foods\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTank Mates\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003eBest with:\u003c\/em\u003e Best kept alone or with fast, mid-water fish it cannot catch\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003eAvoid:\u003c\/em\u003e Other crabs, slow or bottom-dwelling fish, shrimp, snails\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAggression \u0026amp; Behaviour\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003eTemperament:\u003c\/em\u003e Bold and predatory towards anything it can catch\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003eTerritoriality:\u003c\/em\u003e Highly territorial; fights other crabs, needs plenty of space\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eExperience Level\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003eDifficulty:\u003c\/em\u003e Intermediate\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003eChallenges:\u003c\/em\u003e Needs warm, alkaline, pristine water; escapes; eats plants; solitary\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWater Parameters\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003eWater Type:\u003c\/em\u003e Freshwater, hard and alkaline, warm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003eTemperature:\u003c\/em\u003e 26–30°C (79–86°F)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003epH:\u003c\/em\u003e 7.5–8.5\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003eHardness:\u003c\/em\u003e 4–15 dGH\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003eFlow:\u003c\/em\u003e Slow to moderate\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003eTank Size:\u003c\/em\u003e Minimum 90 litres per crab; 80 cm length or more\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFinal Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUnlike many crabs it lives fully underwater, but it still needs a tightly sealed lid because it climbs airline and cables. Keep one per tank unless the aquarium is very large with many caves. It is nocturnal, soft and vulnerable after each moult, and sensitive to copper. Males have a narrow abdominal flap, females a broad one. Endangered in the wild, so choose captive-bred stock where possible. A striking, intelligent invertebrate.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SimsTF","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":64680672199033,"sku":"STF-CRAB-PANTHER","price":20.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1026\/3124\/4153\/files\/STF-CRAB-PANTHER.png?v=1790096981"},{"product_id":"electric-blue-crayfish-cherax-quadricarinatus-5cm","title":"Electric Blue Crayfish Cherax Quadricarinatus 5cm","description":"\u003ch4\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOverview\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Electric Blue Crayfish is a colour form of the Australian Redclaw, a big, heavily built crayfish in vivid cobalt blue, with males showing red patches on the outer claws. It comes from slow rivers and billabongs of tropical northern Australia and southern New Guinea. It suits keepers wanting a bold, interactive species-tank centrepiece rather than a community pet.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003eAdult Size:\u003c\/em\u003e Around 20–25 cm (8–10 in); males larger\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003eLifespan:\u003c\/em\u003e 4–6 years\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003eNative to:\u003c\/em\u003e Northern Australia and southern Papua New Guinea\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003eHabitat:\u003c\/em\u003e Slow tropical rivers, lakes and rocky pools with caves\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFeeding\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003eDiet:\u003c\/em\u003e Omnivorous scavenger\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003ePreferred Foods:\u003c\/em\u003e Sinking pellets, algae wafers, blanched vegetables, frozen shrimp, earthworms, leaf litter\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003eFeeding Habits:\u003c\/em\u003e Feed juveniles daily, adults three or four times weekly; remove leftovers\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTank Mates\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003eBest with:\u003c\/em\u003e Fast, upper-water fish: danios, larger rainbowfish, giant danios, Australian rainbows\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003eAvoid:\u003c\/em\u003e Bottom dwellers, slow or long-finned fish, shrimp, snails, other crayfish\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAggression \u0026amp; Behaviour\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003eTemperament:\u003c\/em\u003e Opportunistic; catches anything slow enough to grab\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003eTerritoriality:\u003c\/em\u003e Territorial towards its own kind; needs one cave per animal\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eExperience Level\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003eDifficulty:\u003c\/em\u003e Beginner to intermediate\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003eChallenges:\u003c\/em\u003e Escapes, uproots plants, vulnerable when moulting, sensitive to copper\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWater Parameters\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003eWater Type:\u003c\/em\u003e Freshwater, hard and alkaline\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003eTemperature:\u003c\/em\u003e 23–28°C (73–82°F)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003epH:\u003c\/em\u003e 7.0–8.5\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003eHardness:\u003c\/em\u003e 5–20 dGH\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003eFlow:\u003c\/em\u003e Moderate\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003eTank Size:\u003c\/em\u003e Minimum 120 litres per adult; larger for pairs\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFinal Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt grows fast into a large, powerful animal that will shred live plants and rearrange decor, so set it up as a hardscape tank with caves and a tight, weighted lid. Provide calcium-rich foods and leave the shed shell for it to eat after each moult, when it hides and is vulnerable. Males have wider claws with red margins; females carry eggs under the tail. Sensitive to copper medications. A hardy, engaging crustacean.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"SimsTF","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":64680672362873,"sku":"STF-CRAY-ELEC-BLUE","price":20.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1026\/3124\/4153\/files\/STF-CRAY-ELEC-BLUE.png?v=1790096987"},{"product_id":"vampire-crab-krakatau-vampirkrabbe-3cm","title":"Vampire Crab Krakatau Vampirkrabbe 3cm","description":"\u003cstrong\u003eVampire Crab Krakatau Vampirkrabbe 3cm\u003c\/strong\u003e  \u003cstrong\u003eOverview:\u003c\/strong\u003e The Vampire Crab, scientifically known as the \"Krakatau Vampirkrabbe,\" is a strikingly colorful and fascinating freshwater species that captivates aquarists worldwide. Known for their vibrant colors, usually a mix of purples, reds, and yellows, and their distinctive bright yellow eyes, these crabs add a unique flair to any freshwater aquarium. They are small, reaching only about 2 inches in width when fully mature, making them an excellent choice for nano tanks.  \u003cstrong\u003eOrigin:\u003c\/strong\u003e The Vampire Crab is native to the Indonesian islands, particularly around the Krakatau volcano, from which its name is derived. They thrive in both terrestrial and aquatic environments, which should be mimicked in home aquariums for their well-being.  \u003cstrong\u003eFeeding:\u003c\/strong\u003e Vampire Crabs are omnivores and are not particularly fussy eaters. Their diet can include a variety of foods, such as algae wafers, sinking pellets, blanched vegetables, and occasional treats of live or frozen foods like brine shrimp or bloodworms. Providing a balanced diet ensures their vibrant colors remain bright and their health optimal.  \u003cstrong\u003eTank Mates:\u003c\/strong\u003e They are generally peaceful and can coexist with many other small, non-aggressive species. Suitable tank mates include small fish, snails, and other non-aggressive shrimp species. However, care should be taken to avoid housing them with large or aggressive fish that may view the crabs as prey.  \u003cstrong\u003eAggression:\u003c\/strong\u003e Vampire Crabs are territorial but not overly aggressive. They may show aggression towards each other if space is limited, so providing ample hiding spots and enough room for each individual to claim its territory is essential. A larger tank reduces the chances of territorial disputes.  \u003cstrong\u003eExperience Level:\u003c\/strong\u003e These crabs are suitable for aquarists of all levels, from beginners to experts. Their care requirements are straightforward, making them an excellent choice for those new to crab keeping while still offering a unique challenge for more experienced hobbyists.  \u003cstrong\u003eWater Parameters:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cul\u003e  \t\u003cli\u003eTemperature: 72°F to 82°F (22°C to 28°C)\u003c\/li\u003e  \t\u003cli\u003epH: 6.5 to 7.5\u003c\/li\u003e  \t\u003cli\u003eHardness: 5 to 15 dGH\u003c\/li\u003e \u003c\/ul\u003e Vampire Crabs require a partially aquatic and partially land-based environment to thrive, mimicking their natural habitat. A paludarium setup with clean, fresh water and plenty of land areas for exploration and basking is ideal. Regular water changes and a well-maintained tank ensure a healthy environment for these captivating creatures.  \u003cstrong\u003eConclusion:\u003c\/strong\u003e The Vampire Crab is a beautiful, intriguing addition to any freshwater aquarium or paludarium. Their care is manageable, making them accessible to hobbyists of all experience levels. With their vibrant colors and unique personality, they are sure to be a standout feature in any setup.","brand":"SimsTF","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":64946702385529,"sku":"STF-CRAB-VAMPIRE","price":22.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1026\/3124\/4153\/files\/Vampire-Crab-Krakatau-Vampirkrabbe.png?v=1792492693"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1026\/3124\/4153\/collections\/STF-SHRIMP-BLUE-DIAMOND_625a38af-2854-4efc-ab70-dfa4b2b48a25.png?v=1790248062","url":"https:\/\/birchwoodaquatics.myshopify.com\/collections\/crabs-crayfish.oembed","provider":"Birchwood Aquatic Centre","version":"1.0","type":"link"}