The scarlet reef hermit crab is one of the most popular saltwater aquarium invertebrates. Usually, they require minimal care with a well-established system. Wherever these reef-safe hermit crabs are, they have a voracious appetite for detritus and algae.
Particularly, they are fond of nuisance algae of the filamentous family, cyanobacteria, as well as slime varieties. Now we are going to briefly discuss these scarlet hermit crabs, including their habitat, diet, natural compatibility and tank parameters. Also, learn which features set it apart from the other hermit crabs.
What is a scarlet reef hermit crab?
Scarlet hermit crabs, also known as red reef hermit crabs, are a fascinating, beneficial and colorful addition to aquariums. They can get their name from their bright red legs, which are contrasted by their yellow face. These small crustaceans contribute not only to the overall interest of your aquarium but also to its overall health.
Despite red-legged hermit crab’s voracious appetites and persistent feeding habits, they only grow to an adult size of 1-½” in length. In addition, among the other hermit crabs, most of the scarlet crabs are very peaceful towards their tankmates.
Scientific Classification of Scarlet Reef Hermit Crab
- Scientific Name: Paguristes cadenati
- Phylum: Arthropoda
- Class: Malacostraca
- Order: Decapoda
- Suborder: Pleocyemata
Quick Parameters About Scarlet Reef Hermit Crabs
- Range: Western Atlantic, Indo pacific
- Reef Compatible: Yes
- Care Level: Beginner
- Temperament: Peaceful;
- Tank Size: 10 gallons
- Mature Size: 1.5 inches
- Diet: Omnivore
- Breeding: Difficult
- Color Form: Red, Yellow
- Life Span: 1-5 years
Interesting Facts About Scarlet Reef Hermit Crabs
Natural Habitat
The red-legged hermit crab is most commonly found in the Atlantic Ocean, particularly in the Indo-Pacific and Caribbean. Usually, they inhabit coral reefs and sandy and rocky bottoms. Besides, it is often collected for the aquarium trade from shallow coastal areas. To preserve their natural populations, they emphasize the importance of sustainable collection.
Diet
Typically, these reef hermit crabs are omnivores and opportunistic scavengers. So that they are feeding on detritus, algae, and small invertebrates. In fact, in the aquarium, they can help control the algae growth by grazing on surfaces. Also contributes to a cleaner and healthier aquarium. In addition, to ensure they receive sufficient nutrition, it is advisable to supplement their diet with specialized marine invertebrate food. Besides other fish food, they will settle to the bottom of their tank.
Breeding
Scarlet hermit crab breeding in the aquarium is extremely difficult. Among female and male scarlet reef crabs, sexual reproduction happens when they pull themselves out of their shells. At this time, their midsections meet for a few minutes. In addition, the female crabs carry their eggs until they are ready to be hatched.
Predators
The red reef hermit crabs face threats from various predators in their natural habitat. Their predators include larger crustaceans, some marine snails and fish species. Still, they may be vulnerable to the larger predatory fish and aggressive invertebrates in an aquarium setting. However, if you keep them with other territorial species or aggressive species, they may become targets for harassment. So be careful when doing it.
Tank Parameters
For reef scarlet hermit crabs, maintaining a suitable tank size is effective for their overall well-being. They thrive in aquariums with stable water conditions, such as a temperature range of 72-78°F, a specific gravity of 1.023-1.025 and a pH level of 8.1-8.4. In addition to providing suitable conditions for longevity, adequate water flow and proper filtration are also required.
Growth & Molting
The scarlet red-legged hermit crabs undergo molting as they grow. They can be shedding their exoskeleton to accommodate their growing size. So if you want to keep these crabs for your aquarium, consider providing a variety of empty shells in various sizes. This can help them outgrow their current home as they molt and age. Besides, ensure they have a secure and quiet place to molt without disturbance. Their molting process is a vulnerable time for them.
Average Lifespan
Usually, these crabs live for an average of 1 to 5 years. But if you provide well-maintained aquariums and provide proper care, they can live for a long time. So, maximizing their lifespan is very essential to maintaining a healthy tank and proper water parameters.
What to put in the Scarlet Reef Hermit Crabs shack
- In the bottom line of the terrarium, add 2 to 3 inches of silica play sand, coconut fiber or soil. They will burrow into it when they are molting.
- Create several hiding places in the terrarium.
- Provides at least 3 to 5 larger empty seashells per crab to furnish the bandit. They use them as their house.
- As they grow, add slightly bigger ones.
- To soak in, add a shallow dish with salt water and marine grade. Be sure it is dechlorinated water.
- Also, be sure the sides of the dish are large enough to get easily.
5 Things to Know About Your Red-Legged Hermit Crab
- They can live up to 5 years.
- Red reef hermit crabs grow up to 6 inches long.
- Usually, they can be handled but will pinch if threatened.
- As they grow, they molt and change their shells.
- As they do not have hard external shell protection, their shell is very important.
Frequently Asked Question
Are red-legged hermit crabs clean-up crews?
Yes, they are classified as a clean-up crew. In the reef aquariums, they eat unwanted food but predominantly graze nuisance algae.
Will Scarlet Reef hermit crabs eat my snails?
Yes, they will eat snails for food and then use their empty shells as homes. So if you want to keep them mixed, ensure the snails are stuck fast to smooth surfaces like the aquarium glass.
How many hermit crabs do I require?
If your rocks and sand are covered in nutritious higher algae, you can add six to a 10-gallon tank, twelve to a 20-gallon tank, and twenty-four to a 50-gallon tank.
Final Say
The Scarlet Reef hermit crab enhances the visual appeal of your tank with its vibrant color and peaceful nature. By realizing their natural behaviors and tank requirements, crab aquarium enthusiasts can create an optimal environment for them.
Related article – Fascinating electric blue hermit crab
