The Freshwater Pom Pom Crab (Ptychognathus barbatus), also known as the Hong Kong Crab or Cheerleading Crab, is a fascinating crustacean belonging to the Grapsidae family. These crabs are a relatively recent addition to the world of aquarium keeping, and as a result, comprehensive information about them is limited, even in scientific research.

Freshwater Pom Pom Crabs hail from tropical regions, including China, Comoros, India, Indonesia, Japan, Madagascar, Malaysia, and Taiwan. Their common name comes from their distinctive claws, which sport filter fans, giving the appearance of pom poms. It's worth noting that this species can be confused with a marine species with a similar common name. However, the freshwater version gets its name from its claws, not anemones.

Freshwater Pom Pom Crabs are quite small, typically not growing larger than an inch. They sport a yellow or brown speckled body, which helps them blend into their environment. Their broad body features a wide carapace to protect vital organs, and they have ten legs, including pincers. They possess sensitive eyes on stalks, allowing them to see nearly 360 degrees. Two pairs of antennae serve different functions, helping them explore their surroundings and taste or smell their environment. To determine their sex, look at their undersides; males have a V-shaped section, larger claws, and bigger "pom poms."

These crabs are native to narrow rivers in tropical areas, often with sandy riverbeds and plenty of rocks and debris creating cracks and crevices. To care for them, it's crucial to recreate these natural conditions in your tank. Here's how to set up an ideal habitat:

Use a sandy substrate as these crabs like to burrow. Create hiding places with decorations, rocks, or driftwood. Freshwater Pom Pom Crabs can coexist with live plants; they won't eat them.

These crabs are one of the few crab species that can coexist with other creatures in a community aquarium. They generally get along with peaceful fish species that won't prey on them, such as Pearl Danio, Neon Tetras, Dwarf Gourami, and Mollies. They also do well with shrimps like Ghost Shrimp or Cherry Shrimp.

Freshwater Pom Pom Crabs are fully aquatic and spend their lives submerged in freshwater. They are more active than most crab species, often scavenging for food. While mostly peaceful, occasional male displays to each other may occur. These crabs also have excellent climbing and digging abilities, so ensure your tank has a secure lid to prevent escapes.

As omnivores, Freshwater Pom Pom Crabs have a varied diet that includes both meaty foods and vegetation. They are scavengers and feed on flakes, pellets, algae wafers, and live/frozen foods like bloodworms and brine shrimp. These crabs may also nibble on small pieces of green vegetables. Calcium supplements are essential for their growth and exoskeleton development.

Freshwater Pom Pom Crabs are relatively hardy and can tolerate slight changes in water conditions. Regular water changes and water testing are essential. Ensure a tight-fitting lid for your tank, and avoid copper-containing chemicals. During molting, these crabs are vulnerable, so provide hiding places and handle them with care.

Breeding Freshwater Pom Pom Crabs is challenging, as their reproductive behavior is not well-documented. Larvae require brackish/saltwater for development, which adds to the complexity. Successful breeding at home is rare, and it would require specific conditions and careful timing of the transfer of young crabs between tanks.

In conclusion, Freshwater Pom Pom Crabs are intriguing additions to the aquarium world. They are relatively easy to care for, compatible with various tank mates, and can thrive in small tanks. While breeding them in captivity is challenging, their unique appearance and peaceful nature make them a valuable addition to your aquatic setup.