The fresh water crab, Il-qabru (Potamon Fluviatile), is endemic to the Maltese islands. Although not so common, it can be found near fresh water springs such as San Martin and Għajn Nastas (Wardija Area), Għajn Żejtuna (Mellieħa) and Fawwara (limits of Siġġiewi). It can also be found in Gozo in Wied ix-Xlendi, Wied San Blas and Wied il-Lunzjata.

Unfortunately much damage has been done to its habitat in the last locality due to the recent oil spill in that picturesque valley.

A lot of good work was carried out by Civil Protection members and other departments to minimise the damage.

This species is protected by Maltese law. Children should be taught to observe it, take photos of it, but never tamper with it or its surroundings.

It feeds mostly on tadpoles and fresh water shrimps and looks for food mostly after dusk. It likes to stay in the sun's rays passing between reeds.

It immediately hides under stones, water plants and broken reeds when it senses danger.

Unfortunately, its numbers are decreasing for various reasons, including insecticides, water pollution and habitat degradation.