Pom Pom Crab (Ptychognathus barbatus) Care Guide
A tiny fully aquatic freshwater crab named for the tufts of fine hairs (setae) on its claws that resemble pom-poms, used to filter food particles from the water.
Overview
Ptychognathus barbatus is a species in the family Varunidae. A tiny fully aquatic freshwater crab named for the tufts of fine hairs (setae) on its claws that resemble pom-poms, used to filter food particles from the water. Peaceful and shy, it is safe to keep with shrimp and small fish in well-planted tanks.
Taxonomy
- Family: Varunidae
- Genus: Ptychognathus
- Scientific name: Ptychognathus barbatus
- Other names: Freshwater Pom Pom Crab
- Origin: Southeast Asia, Taiwan
Habitat
Ptychognathus barbatus, a small varunid crab from fast-flowing streams of Southeast Asia and Taiwan, named for the dense tufts of setae on its claws. It is an omnivorous scavenger that benefits from areas of land or emersed surfaces.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 20 L
- Temperature: 22-28 °C
- pH: 6.5-7.5
- GH: 4-12 °dGH
- Water flow: moderate
- Adult size: 1-2 cm
- Lifespan: 2-3 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: peaceful
- Position in tank: bottom
- Compatible tank mates: Cherry Shrimp, Otocinclus, Small Peaceful Fish
- Avoid with: Large Fish, Cichlids