Hermit Crab - Rock Red Leg - paguristes cadenati

This is a species that is often recommended as part of a "clean up crew" for the reef aquarium. It should be noted, however, that large congregations of Red Legged Hermit Crabs can actually cause significant damage. Small snails & small polyps are at risk from these crabs, as are any other tiny invertebrates. Food may be stolen from the grasp of anemones, so close observation is recommended at feeding times. Kept in sensible numbers (no more than 1 per 35 litres of water), and in tanks without snails, these crabs can be of some benefit as they browse on debris and various types of algae, as well as helping to turn over the substrate. As they gain size, they will moult and need to be supplied with a regular choice of slightly larger empty snail shells to accommodate their growth. Several should be provided at all times for the crabs to choose from. It may be of interest that in the wild, Red Legged Hermit Crabs tend to be found on the sandy areas adjacent to coral reefs, rather than amongst the reef itself. A similar looking, but slightly larger growing species is sometimes exported under the "Red Legged Hermit Crab" nametag " Paguristes digueti. This species, from the Gulf of California, attains 6.4cm (2.5") and is very slightly duller in colouration. Care requirements are basically the same. Red Legged Hermit Crabs should never be kept alongside Blue Legged Hermit Crabs as they will fight. Do not use copper treatments with this species.