Description

Melon Crab (Metasesarma aubryi)

📌 Basic Info

Scientific Name: Metasesarma aubryi
Common Names: Melon Crab, Halloween Crab (variant), Red Devil Land Crab
Family: Sesarmidae
Order: Decapoda
Origin: Southeast Asia — Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore (mangrove and forest floor regions)
Size: 4 – 6 cm (shell width)
Lifespan: 3 – 5 years (with proper care)
Tank Zone: Semi-terrestrial — requires both land and shallow water areas

🌊 Water & Habitat Parameters

Humidity: 70 – 90%
Temperature: 24 – 28°C
pH (Water Area): 7.5 – 8.5
Hardness: Moderately hard
Salinity: Freshwater to low brackish (optional but beneficial)

🐚 Characteristics

Appearance:

• Distinct melon-orange or reddish shell with dark markings depending on lineage.

• Legs usually feature orange, red, or purple highlights.

• Body shape is square with a slightly raised carapace.

Behavior:

• Highly active during the evening and night.

• Curious and enjoys climbing, digging, and exploring.

• Mostly peaceful but territorial with other crabs.

Special Feature:
The bright, melon-colored shell contrasted with dark leg bands gives this crab a very unique tropical look, making it a favorite for paludarium setups.

🍽️ Diet

Type: Omnivorous scavenger
Diet Includes:
• Algae wafers
• Crab & shrimp pellets
• Vegetables (spinach, cucumber, carrot)
• Fruits (melon, apple, banana — small amounts)
• Protein foods like bloodworms or dried shrimp

Feeding Frequency: Once daily in small portions

🛠️ Tank Setup & Maintenance

Tank Size: Minimum 40–60 liters for a pair
Habitat Type: Paludarium (land + shallow water)
Land Area: Moist substrate like coco peat, sand, sphagnum moss
Hiding Spots: Driftwood, caves, leaf litter
Water Area: Shallow dish with fresh or mildly brackish water
Lighting: Low to moderate
Humidity: Keep high using misting systems or manual spraying
Water Change: Replace water dish daily or use small filter

👥 Social Behavior

Nature: Semi-aggressive with its own species; peaceful toward tankmates that stay out of its territory
Tank Mates: Best kept alone or in a species-only paludarium
Avoid: Fish, shrimps, or small animals — crabs may attack them
Activity: Nocturnal

✅ Do’s
• Provide both land and water zones
• Keep humidity high
• Offer calcium sources (cuttlebone) for healthy shell growth

❌ Don’ts
• Don’t keep in fully aquatic aquariums
• Avoid sharp decorations
• Don’t house multiple males together

⭐ Quick Tip
The Melon Crab is a colorful and fascinating semi-terrestrial crab perfect for paludarium lovers. Its exotic look and active personality make it a great display species when kept with the right habitat and humidity