Purple Vampire Crab (Geosesarma cf. dennerle)

The Purple Vampire Crab is a vibrantly colored species of small, primarily terrestrial crab found on the island of Java, Indonesia. Like all Vampire Crab species in the genus Geosesarma they are cryptic invertebrates that typically inhabit humid rainforest close to small streams or seasonally flooded areas among dense vegetation. A social species, they do well in groups provided they are offered plenty of cover and space for territory. Geosesarma crabs have a unique breeding strategy with eggs developing directly into fully formed tiny crabs, which the female will carry on her back for some time after hatching. Although Vampire Crabs have a reputation for being difficult as long as a suitable habitat is provided (including plenty of clean, filtered or moving fresh water) they will thrive and even reproduce in captivity. The Purple or Purple and Yellow Vampire Crab is one of the more colorful species in the genus.