Blue Leg Hermit, White Shelled (Clibnarius tricolor)

$0.75$20.00

The Blue Leg Hermit Crab (Clibanarius tricolor) is a reef-safe algae controller, perfect for small to medium saltwater aquariums. Native to the Caribbean, this hardy species helps maintain a clean tank by consuming algae and detritus. Its peaceful nature makes it ideal for community tanks with corals and other invertebrates.



Description

The Blue Leg Hermit Crab (Clibanarius tricolor) is an essential addition to any saltwater aquarium, admired for its vibrant blue legs and reef-safe behavior. Native to the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico, these hardy crabs play a crucial role in maintaining a clean tank by controlling algae growth and consuming detritus.

Key Features:

  • Reef-Safe and Peaceful: Ideal for community reef tanks, the Blue Leg Hermit Crab coexists with corals, fish, and other invertebrates without disturbing them.
  • Efficient Algae Control: Known for eating various types of algae, including hair algae, these crabs help keep your tank clear of unsightly growth, promoting a healthier environment for your aquatic life.
  • Opportunistic Feeder: In addition to algae, they scavenge for leftover fish food and debris, further reducing the need for manual cleaning.
  • Compact Size: Grows up to 1 inch, making them an excellent fit for small to medium-sized aquariums.
  • Durable and Resilient: Thrives in various water conditions, making them a perfect choice for beginners and seasoned aquarists.

Care Information:
Ensure that your tank has plenty of empty shells for the hermit crabs to grow into, as this prevents aggression. Maintain a stable salinity level between 1.023 and 1.025, with a pH of 8.0–8.4. Though peaceful, they may occasionally attack snails for shells if not enough are provided.

This low-maintenance crab will help maintain a pristine reef tank environment, contributing to its aesthetic beauty and biological balance. Add them to your clean-up crew and watch your aquarium thrive!

Scientific Name

Clibnarius tricolor

Specifications
Origin Caribbean
Max Size 1″
Family Clibnarius
Provider Keys Marine Life Direct

Reef Questions

Are blue leg hermits reef safe?

The Blue Leg Hermit Crab can grow large enough to inhabit a one-and-a-half-inch shell and does well in groups. While they are considered reef safe, they may attack snails for their shells, and having extra empty hermit shells available for them can reduce this behavior.

How big do blue-leg hermit crabs get?

It is one of the smaller hermit crabs, with a maximum size of roughly one inch for a particularly large specimen.

How long do blue-legged hermit crabs live?

Hermit crabs climb over anything in the aquarium but are considered reef safe and do not disturb the corals; it may cause them to temporally close. Blue-legged hermit crabs can live up to 30 years in the wild. However, they only last for about 1-2 years on average when inside an aquarium.

Do Caribbean hermit crabs need saltwater?

Hermit crabs require both freshwater and saltwater water sources to survive. Saltwater should be made using sea salt sold for marine fish and crustaceans.

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