GEOGRAPSUS CARE GUIDE
Geograpsus stormi - iNaturalist
Author: Albomita
Geograpsus is a genus of semi-terrestrial crabs primarily found across equatorial regions, including Central America, Asia, East Africa, Madagascar, and the Pacific Islands. While not the most common, they do appear in the pet trade, primarily through specialised collectors.
COMMON NAMES
Geograpsus is also commonly known as:
Little Nipper Crab
Yellow Nipper Crab
American Nipper Crab
Red Nipper Crab
Nipper Crab
MEMBERS OF THE Species
Geograpsus stormi (occasionally kept in China)
Note: Geograpsus lividus is not known to be present in the trade.
Conservation Level
Unknown – There is limited data on wild populations, so sustainable and ethical sourcing is recommended. Supporting reputable sellers who follow responsible collection practices is important to minimise environmental impact.
Care Level
Dark Method: Beginner, Suitable for those who follow the "dark method" of keeping crabs.
Love method: Intermediate, you can quite easily simulate its natural environment without much drama.
Enclosure and Environment
This genus thrives best under Dark Method setups due to their territorial and often aggressive behaviour.
Tank Size: 20x25x18 cm (8x10x7 in)
Salinity:
Brackish is recommended, especially for coastal species like G. crinipes.
Freshwater may be used in a supplemental fashion, but is not required.
Dual sources (brackish + freshwater) may be offered, especially in Love Methods, though not essential.
Temperature: 24–27°C (75–80°F)
Humidity: ~80%
Molting:
G. grayi molts on land.
G. lividus (not in trade) molts in water.
Substrate
Sand
Coral
Gravel
Dirted substrate for Dark Method setups
Cohabitation
Only viable in Dark Method setups.
In the Love Method, aggression is significantly higher; murder and cannibalism have been observed regardless of tank size.
Diet
Feed a varied omnivorous diet including:
Vegetables
Fish pellets
Shrimp
Credits
The information in this guide was kindly researched and compiled by the team at Crustacean Council: @Fishy_5, @hjfabre