Pompom Crab (Ptychognathus barbatus) for Sale in Canada

The Pompom Crab (Ptychognathus barbatus) is a fascinating small freshwater crab prized for its unique appearance, peaceful temperament, and active behaviour. Its common name comes from the dense tufts of fine hairs on its claws, which resemble tiny pom-poms and are used to collect food from surfaces and the water.

Unlike many larger crab species, Pompom Crabs are generally more peaceful and can be kept in carefully planned planted aquariums or paludarium-style environments. Their small size and constant activity make them an exciting addition for hobbyists looking for unusual freshwater invertebrates.

Monster Aquarium Canada proudly offers healthy Pompom Crabs (Ptychognathus barbatus) with professional live aquatic animal shipping throughout Canada.

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Why Choose Pompom Crabs?

A Unique Freshwater Aquarium Invertebrate

Pompom Crabs are popular because of their:

Unique Features

• Distinctive hairy “pompom” claws
• Small aquarium-friendly size
• Constant active behaviour
• Excellent scavengers
• Interesting climbing ability
• Great for planted aquariums
• Rare collector’s species
• Fascinating feeding behaviour

Their unusual appearance makes them a favourite among freshwater invertebrate enthusiasts.

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Care Requirements

Aquarium Size

A minimum 10–20 gallon aquarium is recommended.

Ideal setup includes:

• Secure escape-proof lid
• Fine sand or smooth gravel
• Driftwood
• Rocks
• Live plants
• Moss
• Gentle filtration
• Numerous hiding places

Because these crabs are skilled climbers, a tightly fitting lid is highly recommended.

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Water Parameters

• Scientific Name: Ptychognathus barbatus
• Common Name: Pompom Crab
• Family: Varunidae
• Adult Size: Approximately 1–2 inches (2.5–5 cm)
• Temperature: 22–28°C (72–82°F)
• pH: 6.8–7.8
• Water Hardness: Soft to Moderate
• Care Level: Intermediate
• Temperament: Generally Peaceful
• Diet: Omnivore
• Origin: Southeast Asia
• Lifespan: Approximately 2–4 years

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Feeding Your Pompom Crab

Pompom Crabs are opportunistic omnivores that enjoy a varied diet.

Recommended Foods

• Shrimp pellets
• Crab pellets
• Algae wafers
• Bloodworms
• Brine shrimp
• Daphnia
• Blanched vegetables
• Biofilm
• Small frozen foods

Their hairy claws help capture tiny food particles while they forage.

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Ideal Aquarium Setup

Pompom Crabs thrive in heavily planted aquariums with plenty of cover.

Recommended Features

• Live plants
• Java Moss
• Driftwood
• Smooth rocks
• Fine substrate
• Gentle water movement
• Stable water quality

A mature aquarium provides natural biofilm and algae for grazing.

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Compatible Tank Mates

Pompom Crabs are generally peaceful when provided with sufficient space.

Suitable companions include:

• Small tetras
• Rasboras
• Corydoras
• Otocinclus
• Peaceful shrimp (monitor interactions)
• Nerite snails
• Small peaceful community fish

Avoid:

• Large aggressive fish
• Crayfish
• Large crabs
• Predatory fish
• Puffers

As with most crabs, very small shrimp or weak tank mates may occasionally be at risk.

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Pompom Crab Behaviour

These tiny crabs are entertaining to watch throughout the day.

Common Behaviours

• Climbing plants and driftwood
• Picking food from surfaces
• Exploring the aquarium
• Hiding in caves
• Grazing on biofilm
• Molting as they grow

Their active lifestyle makes them an excellent display species.

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Molting and Growth

Pompom Crabs molt periodically as they grow.

Molting Tips

• Maintain excellent water quality
• Provide calcium-rich foods
• Offer secure hiding places
• Avoid disturbing freshly molted crabs
• Leave the old shell in the aquarium for calcium recycling

Successful molting is essential for healthy development.

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Why Buy Pompom Crabs from Monster Aquarium Canada?

Premium Healthy Freshwater Crabs

Every Pompom Crab is selected for:

• Healthy shell condition
• Active behaviour
• Intact claws and legs
• Strong feeding response
• Premium aquarium quality

Professional Live Shipping Across Canada

Monster Aquarium Canada carefully packages every Pompom Crab using professional live aquatic animal shipping methods to help ensure safe arrival throughout Canada.

Canada’s Trusted Aquarium Supplier

Monster Aquarium Canada specializes in rare freshwater fish, freshwater crabs, shrimp, crayfish, aquarium snails, tropical fish, monster fish, premium aquarium supplies, fish foods, aquatic medications, and accessories for Canadian aquarium enthusiasts.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are Pompom Crabs fully aquatic?

Yes. Ptychognathus barbatus is generally maintained as a fully aquatic freshwater crab in aquariums, although secure access above the waterline and an escape-proof lid are recommended.

2. How large do Pompom Crabs grow?

Adults typically reach 1–2 inches (2.5–5 cm).

3. Can Pompom Crabs live with shrimp?

They may coexist with larger dwarf shrimp in spacious planted aquariums, but very small shrimp or shrimplets could occasionally be preyed upon.

4. What do Pompom Crabs eat?

They eat algae, biofilm, sinking pellets, frozen foods, and a variety of meaty and plant-based foods.

5. Does Monster Aquarium Canada ship Pompom Crabs?

Yes. Monster Aquarium Canada provides professional live aquatic animal shipping across Canada, ensuring your Pompom Crabs arrive healthy and ready for your aquarium.