Thai Micro Crab

Thai Micro Crab

Limnopilos naiyanetri

Intermediate Freshwater Extremely shy and tiny. Filters particles from the water column with hairs on its feet. Stays hidden among plants and mosses. Fully aquatic. Hymenosomatidae
Max Size 1.0 cm (0.4")
Min Tank 20 L (5 gal)
Min Group 1+
Diet Filter-feeding omnivore - microparticles, biofilm, phytoplankton, powder shrimp food

Water Parameters

Temperature
22.0-28.0°C
72-82°F
pH
6.5-7.8
Hardness (dGH)
4.0-10.0
Min Tank Size
20 L
5 gal

About

The smallest aquarium crab in the world, fully aquatic. Filters food from the water like fan shrimp. Fascinating but rarely visible.

Behavior & Temperament

Extremely shy and tiny. Filters particles from the water column with hairs on its feet. Stays hidden among plants and mosses. Fully aquatic.

Feeding

Filter-feeding omnivore - microparticles, biofilm, phytoplankton, powder shrimp food

Breeding

Oviparous. Females carry few large eggs. Reproduction is rare in captivity. Fry are very small and vulnerable.

Care Notes

Requires dense mosses and fine plants for hiding. Supplemental feeding with powdered food. Mature aquarium with abundant biofilm. Light current for feeding.

Compatibility

Compatible with very small, peaceful fish and dwarf shrimp. Incompatible with any fish that could prey on it.

Quick Summary

Scientific NameLimnopilos naiyanetri
FamilyHymenosomatidae
CategoryCrustacean
Care LevelIntermediate
Water TypeFreshwater
Max Size1.0 cm (0.4")
Min Tank20 L (5 gal)
Min Group1+
DietFilter-feeding omnivore - microparticles, biofilm, phytoplankton, powder shrimp food
TemperamentExtremely shy and tiny. Filters particles from the water column with hairs on its feet. Stays hidden among plants and mosses. Fully aquatic.

Track this species in your aquarium

Create a free account to add Thai Micro Crab to your tank and get personalized care tips.

Create Free Account