Crabs for sale in the Netherlands

Aquarium crabs: behaviour and suitability

Crabs use claws for feeding, territory and defence and may catch fish, shrimp or conspecifics. During and after moulting they are soft and vulnerable and seek complete seclusion. Always assess the actual animal and, when a trade label covers several species, verify the scientific name before acquisition. Age, sex, health and previous housing can noticeably influence behaviour.

Care and housing

First determine whether the species is freshwater, brackish, marine or amphibious. Seal cable and filter openings, provide several dry and wet hides and do not immediately remove a shed shell because minerals are reused. Set up the complete enclosure before the animal arrives and record relevant values and daily behaviour. A sudden change in appetite, activity, breathing, posture or droppings calls for a check of the environment and, where needed, knowledgeable help.

Health and responsible acquisition

Ask for scientific name, sex, salinity and need for land. Do not buy an animal with missing limbs around a damaged carapace, fungal growth or persistent apathy. Also check invasive-species rules. Ask the seller about age, origin, current care and known health problems, and ensure any documents belong to the animal offered. Never choose on colour, size or price alone, and identify a knowledgeable veterinarian or other species expert before urgent problems arise.