PLEASE READ: This species is a semi-terrestrial crab. NOT FULLY AQUATIC. Cannot be kept peacefully with vampire crabs.
The Red Apple Crab is a communal, semi-terrestrial crab whose color changes with its mood!
The Red Apple Crab (Metasesarma aubryi) is a small, very colorful, semi-terrestrial species that is native to Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand. It inhabits forest areas near streams, rivers, and ponds near coastal areas. It spends most of its time on land, but also often submerges in freshwater. It is communal with its own species, though males will sometimes fight in the confines of a smaller enclosure.
In nature, the Red Apple Crab is often found in moist forest environments near water sources, where it moves between land and water. Its ability to change color based on mood or environment makes it a visually interesting pet.
| Species | Metasesarma aubryi |
|---|---|
| Origin | Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand |
| Habitat | Forest areas near streams, rivers, ponds |
| Behavior | Semi-terrestrial, communal, color-changing |
| Compatibility | Best kept with same species; avoid vampire crabs |
FAQ
Can the Red Apple Crab live in a fully aquatic environment?
No, this species is semi-terrestrial and requires both land and freshwater access. It cannot thrive in a fully aquatic setup.
Does the Red Apple Crab change color for reasons other than mood?
The color change is primarily linked to mood and environmental stimuli. There is no evidence of color change due to diet or temperature alone.
Are males more aggressive than females?
Males may display aggression, especially in small enclosures, and can fight with other males. Providing ample space helps reduce conflict.
Matt Turner –
The Red Apple Crab is fascinating to watch. It changes color when it’s happy or stressed. I keep it with two other Red Apple crabs and they get along well. The enclosure needs a moist land area and a shallow water dish. Easy to maintain once set up.
Kevin King –
I was worried about compatibility at first, but it works well with other Red Apple crabs. The color shifts are subtle but noticeable. I don’t keep it with vampire crabs as advised. It’s active during the day and likes to climb around the terrarium.
Sam Ball –
This crab is a great addition to a semi-terrestrial setup. It’s not fully aquatic, so I made sure to include a dry area and a shallow water zone. The color change is impressive and adds visual interest to the enclosure.