GEOSESARMA NODULIFERUM (Geosesarma Bogorensis)
Geosesarma noduliferum Source: Chris Lukhaup
Scientific Classification
Scientific Name: Geosesarma noduliferum
Common / Trade Names: Blue Vampire Crab, Purple Vampire Crab, Geosesarma dennerle “blue”, Geosesarma bogorensis, Geosesarma Borgorensis.
Discoverer: De Man, 1892
Scientifically Described: Yes
Availability in Trade: Very common
Identification & Characteristics
Geosesarma noduliferum is a small, mostly terrestrial freshwater crab native to West Java, Indonesia. It is an excellent climber, highly adaptable to semi-natural environments, and has become increasingly popular in the aquarium trade due to its unusual coloration and social behaviour.
Although frequently confused with other “vampire crab” species, G. noduliferum is a distinct, valid species with a long scientific history dating back to the 19th century. It’s the original OG Vampire Crab! 99% of the time, you will see it listed as Geosesarma bogorensis, which is its old location-based name. It’s still widely used in the pet trad,e but scientifically it’s officially know as Geosesarma nodulierum.
Appearance
Carapace: Clearly divided into two colour zones; typically violet-brown to violet-black combined with dark blue. Color intensity varies by individual, age, and environment. It essentially looks like Geosesarma with the yellow patch replaced with a blue one.
Legs: Dark brown, violet-black, or nearly black
Claws: Violet to purple
Eyes: Yellow to pale yellow-white
Underside: Brown to black
Size: Comparable to other Geosesarma species; small-bodied crab with a compact carapace and relatively long legs suited for climbing
Juveniles are more muted in colour and develop their full contrast as they mature.
Distribution & Habitat
Native to: Near Bogor, West Java, Indonesia
Wild location of Geosesarma noduliferum
Natural Habitat
Tropical forest floor: Primarily terrestrial, living close to freshwater sources
Streams: Often found in the middle sections of slow to moderately flowing streams
Human-adjacent environments: Frequently recorded in rice fields, tea plantations, parks, and near human settlements
Burrowing: Digs shallow to moderately deep burrows in moist soil
Climbing: Excellent climbers; often observed on roots, rocks, and vegetation
Social Structure & Behaviour
Social behavior: More social than many Geosesarma species and can live in stable groups when provided sufficient space and hiding spots
Aggression: Generally moderate; disputes may occur between males but are less intense than in more territorial species
Plant safety: Does not damage live plants, making it ideal for planted paludariums
Activity: Mostly crepuscular to nocturnal, though often visible during the day in established setups
As with all vampire crabs, mixing different species or color forms is not recommended, as interspecies aggression is common and often fatal.
When Kept in Captivity
Geosesarma noduliferum thrives in paludarium-style enclosures that replicate a humid forest floor with access to shallow freshwater.
Environmental Requirements
Humidity: 75% or higher
Lifestyle: Mostly terrestrial with access to shallow water
Escape risk: Excellent climbers — a secure lid is mandatory
Water Section Rules
Water Temperature: 22–25°C (71–78°F)
pH: 7.0–8.0
KH: 0–10
GH: 4–16
Ammonia: 0
Nitrite: 0
Nitrate: Below 20 ppm
Air Temperature
Ideal range: 22–28°C (71–82°F)
Natural fluctuation: Gradual daily swings (approx. 20–30°C) are acceptable and natural
Heating: A heater may be required during colder months
Diet
Geosesarma noduliferum is an omnivore and opportunistic feeder.
Typical diet includes:
Insects and insect larvae
Small invertebrates
Algae and biofilm
Leaf litter and plant matter
Commercial crab and invertebrate foods
They readily accept a wide variety of foods and are easy to feed in captivity.
Breeding & Life Cycle
Breeding behavior follows the typical Geosesarma pattern:
Mating can be aggressive, with males forcefully engaging females
Females carry fertilized eggs under the abdomen
Eggs hatch after approximately 45–60 days
No larval stage: offspring emerge as fully formed miniature crabs
Juveniles stay close to water for the first 3–4 months
Cannibalism (by adults and siblings) is common
Young crabs grow rapidly, molting frequently. Adult coloration and territorial behavior usually develop between 8–12 months.
Maintaining genetic diversity by introducing unrelated bloodlines is important in long-term captive populations.
Conservation Status
Geosesarma noduliferum has not yet been formally assessed by the IUCN. However, like many Geosesarma species, it faces localized population pressure due to habitat loss and collection for the aquarium trade.
Responsible captive breeding is strongly encouraged to reduce wild collection.
Notes & Common Misidentifications
Geosesarma bogorensis is not a valid species — it is a fictional trade name
This species is frequently mislabelled as “blue Geosesarma dennerle,” which is incorrect
Correct identification is important for conservation, breeding programs, and accurate husbandry
Interesting Facts
One of the earliest scientifically described Geosesarma species (1892)
Highly adaptable to semi-natural and human-influenced environments
Ideal for planted paludariums due to its non-destructive behaviour
Social, active, and often visible compared to many other vampire crab species