Underwater crab "Matano Purple" - Syntripsa matannensis

The underwater crab "Matano Purple" (Syntripsa matannensis) is a fascinating and colorful aquarium crab that owes its name to its intense purple coloration. This unusual crab species originates from Lake Matano in Indonesia and is a real eye-catcher in any freshwater aquarium.

Origin and habitat

Syntripsa matannensis is native to the clear waters of Lake Matano, one of the oldest and deepest lakes in the world. There it lives between stones and roots, where it finds shelter and food. This habitat should be recreated in the aquarium with sufficient hiding places such as aquarium plants, caves and roots.

Keeping in the aquarium

The Matano Purple is a peaceful crab that can be kept well in community aquariums with other peaceful fish and invertebrates. As it is a climbing species, the aquarium should be securely covered to prevent escapes. These crabs tend to use any gap to escape.

A well-structured aquarium with a sand or gravel bottom, stones and plants provides ideal conditions for the crab. Mosses and in-vitro aquarium plants are particularly popular as they provide additional hiding places and climbing structures.

Diet

The Syntripsa matannensis is an omnivore. It feeds on plant and animal matter. This includes algae, dead plant parts and smaller creatures such as worms and insects. In the aquarium, it can be fed a mixture of vegetables, algae leaves and protein-rich food such as frozen food or small pellets.

Water values and care

The Matano Purple prefers a water temperature of 24 to 28 °C and needs soft to medium-hard water. As it comes from one of the clearest lakes in the world, clean water and effective filtration are particularly important. Regular water changes help to maintain the water quality.