Depending on how it feels, this crab changes its color. They change color from a bright red when they are confident in their own skin (shell!) to a rust-brown when they are depressed. As long as there are sufficient hiding places, these crabs are fairly tolerant. They can be paired with members of their own species, but stay away from pairing them with other crabs since they might act aggressively.
In the hobby, the Red Apple Crab (Metasesarma aubryi) is a somewhat uncommon and unheard-of crab. These crabs aren’t entirely aquatic; instead, they’re terrestrial. They are a fantastic option for a paludarium arrangement because of this.
These crabs are wonderful because they are incredibly simple to take care of, which makes them ideal for people who are keeping crabs for the first time. Additionally, due to their diminutive size, they won’t take up a lot of room either.
Habitat
These crabs are native to Java Island and Sulawesi in Indonesia. In modern times, its geographic range has greatly expanded; they can now be found in places like New Caledonia, Taiwan, the Gulf of Thailand, Sumatra, New Guinea, Rotuma, the Morotai Islands, and the Mergui Archipelago.
Their natural habitat is in the areas of the deep tropical forest next to the river stream. The Metasesarma aubryi species favors heavily forested places that are near waterways, shady areas, and areas where they can dig and conceal themselves.
Feed
Red Apple crabs are scavengers by nature. In the wild, this species mostly consumes the roots and stems of plants, supplemented by dead insects, tadpoles, worms, larvae, etc. They can consume practically anything because they are essentially omnivores.
Red Apple crabs in captivity require a balanced diet of meats and plants for the optimal growth, and the protein content of their feeds should range from 20 to 30 percent.
Keeping as Pet
Apple crab housing and care
Fortunately, Red Apple crabs are fairly simple to maintain, even for novices. However, it’s crucial to provide your crab with all it requires, including adequate care, if you want to keep it happy and healthy for as long as you can.
Tank Size
Red Apple crabs want to have their own area in which to move around and a variety of terrain in which to hide and seek refuge from things like unwelcome attention or sunshine. Because of this, a 5-gallon (20-liter) tank is the very least advised for a few Red Apple crabs—1 male and/or 2 females.
Remember that the primary cause of stress for crabs is overcrowding. As a result, it may result in hostility and health issues. Given that males are more aggressive than females, this is especially crucial when you have multiple guys. Add at least 1 to 2 extra gallons (or 4 to 8 more liters) of tank space per additional Red Apple crab if you want a larger colony.
Temperature
Because Red Apple crabs like a warm, humid habitat, the ideal temperature range is between 71 and 79 degrees Fahrenheit (22 and 26 degrees Celsius).
Humidity
The amount of humidity is crucial. For red apple crabs to breathe and molt correctly, the air must be moist and humid. The ideal humidity range is between 70 and 90 percent.
Lighting
Red Apple crabs are nocturnal creatures. To meet the needs of the plants in the paludarium or terrarium, the lighting should be adjusted.
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