Paguristes cadenati

Datasheet

General Description

The Scarlet Reef Hermit Crab, scientifically known as Paguristes cadenati, is a popular choice in reef tanks due to its hardy nature and minimal care requirements. With bright red legs and a yellow face, this hermit crab grows to a modest adult size of 1-1/2" in length. Found in the Caribbean and Western Atlantic, these active scavengers have a hearty appetite for detritus, algae, and cyanobacteria.

Aquarium Suitability

Scarlet Reef Hermit Crabs are ideal for reef systems with abundant algae. They are peaceful towards tankmates and can be fed fish food, invertebrate diets, dried seaweed, and other marine-based foods. It is crucial to provide empty shells for them to move into as they molt and grow. These hermit crabs are intolerant to copper-based medications and water parameter fluctuations.

Demands, Care and Hardiness

Caring for Scarlet Reef Hermit Crabs is relatively easy as they are hardy creatures that thrive in well-established aquariums. They require a stable environment with adequate algae supplies and regular feeding. It is essential to ensure an invertebrate-friendly tank without predators and maintain proper water quality with supplements like calcium, magnesium, iodine, and trace elements.

Reef Suitability

These hermit crabs are reef-compatible and contribute positively to reef maintenance by consuming nuisance algae. Their peaceful temperament makes them a great addition to coral reef ecosystems.

Aquarium Setup

For Scarlet Reef Hermit Crabs, it is recommended to set up a reef tank with ample algae growth. Provide hiding spots and a variety of empty shells for them to inhabit. Maintain stable water conditions with a pH of 8.1-8.4, a specific gravity of 1.023-1.025, and a carbonate hardness (KH) of 8-12 dKH.

Behaviour

Scarlet Reef Hermit Crabs are active scavengers, constantly foraging for food in the aquarium. They are known to be peaceful towards other tank inhabitants and can help control algae levels in the tank.

Feeding and Diet

Being herbivores and omnivores, these hermit crabs feed on detritus, algae, cyanobacteria, fish food, dried seaweed, and other marine-based foods. Supplement their diet with necessary nutrients to ensure their well-being and vitality.

Habitat and Distribution

Scarlet Reef Hermit Crabs are native to reef faces and coral rubble in the Caribbean and Western Atlantic regions. They prefer habitats with ample algae growth for feeding and shelter, contributing to the ecosystem's balance.