Blue Leg Hermit Crab

The Blue Leg Hermit Crab (Clibanarius tricolor) is a small marine invertebrate renowned for its vibrant blue legs and beneficial role in maintaining aquarium cleanliness. These crabs are popular among aquarists for their algae-eating habits and active behavior.

Essential Information

• Common Names: Blue Leg Hermit Crab, Dwarf Blue Leg Hermit Crab
• Scientific Name: Clibanarius tricolor
• Family: Diogenidae
• Origin/Habitat: Native to the Caribbean Sea, inhabiting sandy and rocky coastal areas, often found in shallow waters among coral reefs.
• Maximum Size: Typically grows up to 1 inch (2.5 cm) in length.
• Lifespan: With proper care, they can live up to 2 years in captivity.
• Level of Difficulty: Easy; suitable for both novice and experienced aquarists.
• Reef Safe: Yes; they are generally considered reef-safe but may occasionally disturb small polyps or snails.

Appearance & Physical Traits

• Coloration & Pattern: Notable for their bright blue legs, often adorned with red banding, and a dark-colored body.
• Body Shape & Structure: Like other hermit crabs, they have a soft abdomen protected by occupying empty snail shells, which they carry as mobile shelters.

Habitat & Environmental Needs

• Minimum Tank Size: A well-established aquarium of at least 10 gallons (38 liters) is recommended to provide adequate space and stable water conditions.
• Water Temperature: Prefer temperatures between 72°F and 78°F (22°C to 25.5°C).
• pH Level: Maintain between 8.1 and 8.4.
• Specific Gravity: Optimal range is 1.023 to 1.025.
• Aquascape: Provide ample live rock and a sandy substrate to offer grazing surfaces and hiding spots.

Diet & Feeding

• Diet Type: Omnivorous; primarily consumes algae and detritus.
• Preferred Foods: Feeds on various types of algae, detritus, and uneaten fish food.
• Feeding Frequency: In a well-established aquarium with sufficient algae and detritus, they typically do not require supplemental feeding.

Behavior & Compatibility

• Temperament: Active and generally peaceful; spends much of the day scavenging and grazing on surfaces.
• Social Behavior: Compatible with a wide range of reef-safe fish and invertebrates.
• Tank Mate Compatibility: Avoid housing with aggressive predators, such as certain crabs and fish species like Triggerfish and Pufferfish, which may prey on hermit crabs.
• Activity Level: Primarily nocturnal; often more active during the night.

Care Considerations & Additional Notes

• Ease of Care: Easy; they are hardy and adaptable, making them suitable for various marine aquarium setups.
• Special Requirements: Provide a variety of empty shells of different sizes to accommodate growth and reduce competition among individuals.
• Breeding Info: Breeding in captivity is challenging and not commonly achieved.
• Additional Notes: Blue Leg Hermit Crabs play a vital role in maintaining aquarium cleanliness by consuming algae and detritus. However, they may occasionally compete with other invertebrates for shells and can be aggressive toward each other if adequate shells are not provided.