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Snails5 Thai Micro Spider Crabs
Thai Micro Spider Crabs are small freshwater crabs that are native to Thailand. They are known for their long, thin legs and small body size that gives them a spider-like appearance. They should be kept in groups of 3 or more and prefer heavily planted tanks where they can hide in driftwood and plants. They are grey/brown in color, with some variance, and they will eat sinking food and natural algae.
Micro Spider Crabs
The Thai micro spider crab is from one specific river in Thailand. They are a very small crab that may reach 0.6" across in total. They should be kept in groups of 3 or more. They love heavily planted tanks and will hide in driftwood and plants. Most are a grey color with some brown spots, although there is some variance in color. They are omnivorous and will love some meaty treats. They will need sinking foods and would relish a constant supply of natural algae to graze from.
Micro Spider Crabs Behavior
Like dwarf shrimp, Thai micro spider crabs can be quite shy. They need plenty of hiding places to feel safe. Adding decorations and plants (floating plants with long roots will be especially appreciated) is a good idea.
Micro Spider Crabs Care
Thai micro spider crab care and requirements are relatively similar to those of dwarf shrimp. A large aquarium is not needed for these crabs. A small colony can be sustained in an aquarium of at least 5 gallons (19L), as long as it's fully cycled and heated. This being said, because they don't respond well to low water quality, keeping them in a slightly larger tank might be easier. A larger volume of water will be easier to keep stable. Find out more about Micro Spider Crabs in The Shrimp Farm Academy.
Buying Micro Spider Crabs
A relatively recent addition to the aquarium hobby, Thai micro crabs are quickly gaining popularity. They are appreciated among shrimp keepers for their very peaceful nature and similar requirements, which make them a great option if you're looking for tankmates for your (dwarf) shrimp.
Scientific Name: Limnopilos naiyanetri
Common Name: Thai micro crab
Other Common Name: Thai micro spider crab, false spider crab
Temperament: Territorial
Breeding: Difficult (needs brackish water)
Care Level: Moderate
Origin: Thailand
Found in Wild: Yes
Life Span: 1-2 years
Gestation Period: 6-10 weeks
Full Grown Size: Size of a US Dime
Approximate Purchase Size: Smaller than a US Dime, they are Micro for a reason!
General Water Parameters:
pH Range: 6.5-7
Temperature Range: 71.5-82.5 °F (22-28 °C)
GH Range: 8-12, Ideally 10 GH
KH Range: 4-6, Ideally 5 KH
TDS Range: 175-250
Minimum Tank Size: Nano Tanks
Currently Being Fed: Ebita Breed Quatro 2
How big do Micro Spider Crabs get?
The micro spider crabs are very small crabs that may reach 0.6" across in total.
How many Micro Spider Crabs can I keep per gallon?
A small colony can be sustained in an aquarium of at least 5 gallons (19L), as long as it's fully cycled and heated. This being said, because they don't respond well to low water quality, keeping them in a slightly larger tank might be easier. A larger volume of water will be easier to keep stable.
How long do Micro Spider Crabs live?
1-2 years, these crabs have a shorter lifespan overall.
Is Micro Spider Crabs easy to Breed?
Thai micro spider crab breeding is definitely not an easy task. It seems no aquarist has managed to do (and document) it yet, although some appear to have come quite close.
Female crabs do become pregnant (gravid) and even get as far as releasing their young, but in the end, these always die before they can mature. An interesting project, so be sure to give it a shot! You may make aquarist history.
What is the diet of Micro Spider Crabs?
Thai micro crabs have small hairs on their claws. These are used to catch any small food particles the crabs can find. They're omnivores and definitely not picky when it comes to food.
In the aquarium, your crabs will spend much of their time foraging for micro-organisms in plants and algae, but be sure to supplement their diet with a high-quality food to prevent them from going hungry. Shrimp foods contain all the nutrients your crabs need and should work well.
What are the best tankmates for Micro Spider Crabs?
Thai micro spider crabs are extremely peaceful and should always be surrounded by similarly calm tank mates. (Dwarf) shrimp like cherry shrimp or Crystal Reds would be the ideal choice, as these require very similar conditions in the aquarium, although you can also keep them with small peaceful fish species such as pygmy Corydoras and Microrasbora. Never keep your Thai micro spider crabs with larger fish that might have a taste for crab legs, as they are completely defenseless.
Like most inverts, the Thai micro crab appreciated the company of its own kind. They should be kept in small groups of at least three to help them feel safe.
What is the best way to Acclimate my new Micro Spider Crabs?
When adding new tankmates to your already existing tank, it is important to take the proper steps in introducing and acclimating them into their new home. The whole process is extremely stressful for the crab. Acclimation is important for crabs as it allows them time to adjust to the temperature and parameters of their new environment. By doing this correctly, you will reduce the chances of shock or death of your new crab. We recommend drip acclimation for crabs as it is generally the best option to adjust them slowly to your tank.
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