A tiny, truly freshwater micro-crab (Limnopilos naiyanetri) prized for nano aquariums. They cling to moss and fine-leaved plants, filter food particles with hairy legs, and add delicate movement to planted tanks.
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A tiny, truly freshwater micro-crab (Limnopilos naiyanetri) prized for nano aquariums. They cling to moss and fine-leaved plants, filter food particles with hairy legs, and add delicate movement to planted tanks.
Extremely small (0.4–0.6 in / 1–1.5 cm), semi-translucent to light brown-gray carapace with fine setae on legs that trap food. Delicate legs and compact carapace make them appear like tiny, moving specks in densely planted tanks.
1.5–2 years in well-maintained aquaria
Micro-detritivore / microfilter feeder — feeds on biofilm, microalgae, detritus, powdered sinking foods, crushed flakes, finely ground shrimp pellets, and occasional liquid fry foods. Regular presence of natural microfauna (infusoria, diatoms) is important.
Thai Micro Crabs are a niche but rewarding choice for dedicated nano-aquarists who can maintain stable, biofilm-rich tanks. Their tiny size and delicate behaviour create a subtle, living micro-ecosystem when kept in appropriate planted setups.
Advanced/Delicate — small size makes them sensitive to poor water quality and sudden changes; experienced nano-keepers or shrimp keepers recommended.
5 gallons for a tiny colony (recommended 10+ gallons for stability and better microfauna), heavily planted/nano setup
6.5 to 7.5
2–12 dGH
72–82°F (22–28°C)
0.4–0.6 inches (1–1.5 cm)
Small peaceful nano fish (ember tetras, chili rasboras, celestial pearl danios), dwarf shrimp (Neocaridina sp. with caution), snails (nerite, Malaysian trumpet). Avoid fish that forage aggressively on microfauna or pick at tiny invertebrates.
Large or aggressive fish (cichlids, gouramis), predatory/omnivorous species that pick at small invertebrates, large shrimp species that may outcompete or injure them, and active bottom dwellers that disturb substrate.
Limnopilos naiyanetri
Hymenosomatidae
Thailand — Chao Phraya River basin (freshwater)
Colony-oriented; do best in small groups where micro-communities form and individuals feel secure. Not territorial in the way larger crabs are.
Offer powdered/finely crushed foods, liquid fry foods, biofilm supplements, and ensure continuous microfauna by maintaining soft lighting, lots of live plants/moss, and a mature substrate. Feed tiny portions frequently; avoid large sinking pellets that they cannot consume.
Rarely reproduced in home aquaria; believed to breed sexually with females carrying tiny eggs beneath the abdomen until hatching. Successful captive breeding has been sporadically reported and requires abundant microfauna and very stable conditions.
If breeding occurs, females carry very small eggs beneath the abdomen until hatching. Hatchlings resemble miniature adults and require plentiful microfood (infusoria, green water) to survive. Provide dense moss and fine-leaf plants for shelter and food. Raising young is challenging due to their tiny size and feeding requirements.
pH: 6.5–7.5, Temperature: 72–82°F (22–28°C), Hardness: 2–12 dGH, Ammonia/Nitrite: 0 ppm, Nitrate: <20 ppm. Low to gentle water flow and high dissolved oxygen are preferred.
Stress from parameter swings, starvation in tanks lacking biofilm/microfauna, molting complications if water chemistry or calcium is inadequate, and sensitivity to copper-based medications.
Very peaceful and shy; non-aggressive. Best observed in groups where they feel secure.
Primarily cryptic and shy; often cling to moss, roots, or plant surfaces and feed on the film of micro-organisms. They are more active at dawn/dusk and when microfauna levels are high. They rarely swim in open water and retreat quickly into vegetation if disturbed.
Thai Micro Crab (Limnopilos naiyanetri) is a true freshwater micro-crab native to Thailand (Chao Phraya basin). They are one of the smallest freshwater crabs kept in the hobby and are valued for their miniature size and filter-feeding behaviour. Ideal for heavily planted nano tanks, paludariums, or shrimp-style setups, they cling to moss, java fern, and fine root systems and graze on biofilm. Because of their tiny size and delicate physiology they require stable, clean water, abundant micro-organisms, and low to gentle flow. They are best kept in groups (several individuals) to reduce stress and encourage natural behaviour. Avoid copper medications and sudden parameter swings; ensure plenty of hiding spots and continuous microfood availability to sustain them.