Panther Crab Parathelphusa Pantherina 3cm

Overview

The 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.

• Adult Size: Carapace 4–7 cm (1.5–3 in); leg span to 12 cm (5 in)
• Lifespan: 3–5 years

Origin

• Native to: Lake Matano, Sulawesi, Indonesia
• Habitat: Rocky lake shallows with caves and crevices; clear warm water

Feeding

• Diet: Omnivorous, leaning carnivorous
• Preferred Foods: Sinking pellets, frozen shrimp, bloodworm, algae wafers, blanched carrot, courgette
• Feeding Habits: Feed small portions every other day; include calcium-rich foods

Tank Mates

• Best with: Best kept alone or with fast, mid-water fish it cannot catch
• Avoid: Other crabs, slow or bottom-dwelling fish, shrimp, snails

Aggression & Behaviour

• Temperament: Bold and predatory towards anything it can catch
• Territoriality: Highly territorial; fights other crabs, needs plenty of space

Experience Level

• Difficulty: Intermediate
• Challenges: Needs warm, alkaline, pristine water; escapes; eats plants; solitary

Water Parameters

• Water Type: Freshwater, hard and alkaline, warm
• Temperature: 26–30°C (79–86°F)
• pH: 7.5–8.5
• Hardness: 4–15 dGH
• Flow: Slow to moderate
• Tank Size: Minimum 90 litres per crab; 80 cm length or more

Final Notes

Unlike 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.