Panther Crab (Parathelphusa pantherina) Care Guide

A striking fully aquatic freshwater crab endemic to Lake Matano in Sulawesi, Indonesia. Distinguished by its bright yellow-orange body covered in dark leopard-like spots.

Overview

Parathelphusa pantherina is a species in the family Gecarcinucidae. A striking fully aquatic freshwater crab endemic to Lake Matano in Sulawesi, Indonesia. Distinguished by its bright yellow-orange body covered in dark leopard-like spots. Unlike most freshwater crabs, it is entirely aquatic and does not need land access, making it easier to house in a standard aquarium.

Taxonomy

Family: Gecarcinucidae
Genus: Parathelphusa
Scientific name: Parathelphusa pantherina
Other names: Leopard Crab, Sulawesi Panther Crab
Origin: Southeast Asia, Indonesia, Sulawesi

Habitat

Parathelphusa pantherina is a fully aquatic freshwater crab endemic to Lake Matano on Sulawesi, Indonesia, named for its spotted carapace. It inhabits warm, hard, mineral-rich water and feeds as an omnivore on plant matter, detritus and small prey.

Tank requirements

Minimum tank volume: 60 L
Temperature: 24-28 °C
pH: 7-8.5
GH: 6-15 °dGH
Water flow: moderate
Adult size: 6-8 cm
Lifespan: 3-5 years
Difficulty: intermediate

Diet

Classified as omnivore. Recommended feeding frequency: 1x daily. In captivity, offer a varied diet appropriate to the species — quality prepared foods supplemented with frozen or live items of suitable size.

Compatibility

Temperament: semi-aggressive
Position in tank: bottom
Compatible tank mates: Fast Mid-Dwelling Fish, Sulawesi Shrimp
Avoid with: Slow Fish, Bottom Dwellers, Small Shrimp, Snails