This species is widespread in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, from the foothills of the Drakensberg to the coast from Port Shepstone to Lake Sibayi.

[1] They mate outside of water and the female carries the eggs and young under her broad tail until they are fully formed miniature crabs.

She then releases them into quiet pools in streams where the juveniles spend much of their time in the water.

The young shelter under leaves, stones and among tree roots that enter the water.

[4] These crabs are a primary source of food for Cape clawless otters and water mongoose,[5] and may also be eaten by Nile monitors.