Crabs are often ignored by aquarists and/or labeled carnivores (read: snail killers); this amazing video from famua provides ample evidence why these crustaceans should not be crossed off any list. With a bit of research and good husbandry these animals can add diversity and interest to any tank If you’re looking for something more delicate, [...]
Crabs are often ignored by aquarists and/or labeled carnivores (read: snail killers); this amazing video from famua provides ample evidence why these crustaceans should not be crossed off any list. With a bit of research and good husbandry these animals can add diversity and interest to any tank
If you’re looking for something more delicate, check out the clip below and watch as Periclimenes and Sexy Shrimp do their thing.







10 Comments
I've never seen any of those crabs for sale. Are they readily available?
known as porcelain crabs, they are very easy for any LFS that buys out of LA to get. Wont cost you more than $12-20, they are very hardy too. Usually hanging in Euphillia or anemones.
I've a group of 3 Petrolisthes spp (? I think). Not out very often, but fun to watch them “strain” the water when they are.
Porcelain crabs are an exception to the rule, especially since they aren't true brachyuran crabs. Yes, hermits are also not brachyurans, but they and true crabs usually behave similarly. IMO, the general reef safe descriptions of porcelains are because they've invested so much into developing their filter feeding appendages. Like you said, research is important for any livestock purchase.
What are the red fuzzy looking crabs in the bubble coral? They are shown after the porcelain crabs.
What are the red fuzzy looking crabs in the bubble coral? They are shown after the porcelain crabs.
The red fuzzy crabs look like something from the Majoidea superfamily, which includes spider and decorator crabs.
The red fuzzy crabs look like something from the Majoidea superfamily, which includes spider and decorator crabs.
hmm i thought they would cover themselves in something differant in order to blend in. But that would explain the clip of them in the algae. Thank you!
hmm i thought they would cover themselves in something differant in order to blend in. But that would explain the clip of them in the algae. Thank you!