Pom Pom Crab

The Pom Pom Crab is a small aquatic crab named for the fuzzy tufts on its claws. It spends its time picking over submerged surfaces and exploring crevices, making it interesting to observe in a mature aquarium with plentiful natural grazing areas.

Animal details

• Scientific name: Ptychognathus sp., commonly traded as P. barbatus; exact identification may vary
• Size offered: Contact us for the current size
• Adult size: Approximately 2–3 cm across the shell, with a wider leg span
• Origin: Tropical coastal and estuarine regions of the Indo-Pacific; exact stock locality unconfirmed
• Water type: Aquatic; freshwater versus brackish requirements need confirmation for the current stock
• Temperament: Generally mild, but an opportunistic feeder

Recommended aquarium conditions

• Aquarium: 10 US gallons or larger is recommended for stability and cover
• Temperature: Tropical conditions; confirm the current holding temperature during purchase
• Salinity: Confirm the stock's identification and holding salinity; do not assume permanent freshwater is suitable for every Pom Pom Crab

Provide fine substrate, stones, wood, and small protected gaps. Encourage biofilm on submerged surfaces and use gentle to moderate circulation with good oxygenation. This aquatic crab does not need a dedicated land section, but the aquarium still needs a secure escape-resistant cover.

Diet and feeding

Feed tiny sinking crustacean foods and occasional finely sized frozen foods. Natural algae and biofilm add grazing opportunities but should not be its only nutrition. Make sure faster animals do not take every portion, and remove excessive leftovers.

Compatibility and care

Avoid predatory fish and aggressive bottom dwellers. Small or newly molted shrimp can be vulnerable, and tankmates must tolerate the same water chemistry. Provide private retreats during molting and use invertebrate-safe maintenance products. Aquarium trade identifications and long-term salinity advice for this group are inconsistent, so contact us before purchase to match this animal to an appropriate setup.

Sizes are approximate. Contact Las Vegas Exotic Fish at (702) 685-5100 to confirm availability or discuss your setup.