Freshwater Pom Pom Crab

The freshwater Pom Pom crab (scientific name: Ptychognathus barbatus) is a rare gem in the aquarium trade!

Not to be confused with their marine counterpart, this freshwater-dwelling crustacean isn’t as widespread as other species. As a result, aquarists are still learning quite a bit about these curious creatures. Very little is known about their care requirements. This means our guide is gathered from primarily anecdotal evidence

Water Parameters 

• Temperature: 72-78°F (anectodally as low as 68°F)
  
• Chlorine/chloramines: 0 ppm (very toxic)
  
• Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm
  
• Max Nitrate: 30 ppm
• pH: 6.2 - 7.2
• dKH: under 30. Seem to do better in soft acidic water
• Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons
  
• Seem to thrive in groups of 5 or more