Description
True Orange-Legged Hermit Crab (Clibanarius tricolor)
(Also known as Blue-Legged Hermit Crab, Tricolor Hermit Crab, or Caribbean Orange-Leg Hermit Crab)
Overview
The True Orange-Legged Hermit Crab (Clibanarius tricolor) is a small and highly active marine hermit crab valued for its vibrant colouration and excellent cleaning abilities. Its vivid orange and blue banded legs and distinctive white facial markings make it both decorative and functional. A tireless scavenger, this species helps control algae, detritus, and leftover food, keeping reef aquariums clean and balanced. Hardy, peaceful, and reef safe, C. tricolor is one of the most popular and reliable members of marine cleanup crews.
Origin
Native to the Caribbean Sea, Gulf of Mexico, and Western Atlantic Ocean. Commonly found in shallow coral rubble zones, sandy lagoons, and rocky reef flats, where it forages among coral and rock structures for food and new shells.
Feeding
An omnivorous scavenger, the True Orange-Legged Hermit Crab feeds naturally on film algae, microalgae, detritus, and uneaten food. For best health, supplement its diet 3–4 times per week with:
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Algae wafers or sinking marine pellets
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Finely chopped mysis shrimp or seafood
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Seaweed sheets (nori)
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Leftover flake or pellet foods
Supplemental feeding ensures steady growth and helps prevent aggression over shells or food resources.
Lighting
Low to moderate lighting. This crab does not rely on light but will forage actively under typical reef conditions, both day and night.
Water Flow
Moderate, indirect flow. Provide stable, circulating water to keep detritus suspended without creating strong currents that may dislodge the crab.
Placement & Habitat Setup
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Provide plenty of live rock and natural hiding spaces for shelter and foraging.
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Use fine sand or small-grain substrate to allow easy movement and burrowing.
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Supply a variety of empty shells of different sizes and shapes to accommodate growth and reduce shell disputes.
Tank Mates
Reef safe. Compatible with:
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All peaceful reef fish (clownfish, gobies, tangs, wrasses, etc.)
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Other small hermit crabs and shrimp (with adequate shells and space)
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Corals, soft corals, and invertebrates — generally harmless
Avoid:
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Predatory fish (triggers, puffers, large wrasses) that may attack or eat hermit crabs
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Larger aggressive crab species
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Tanks lacking spare shells — shell competition may result in snail deaths
Aggression
Peaceful, mildly competitive. Generally docile, but may fight for shells or food if resources are limited. Maintaining a steady supply of spare shells helps prevent conflict.
Experience Level
Beginner. Clibanarius tricolor is extremely hardy, adaptable, and ideal for both new and experienced aquarists. It’s one of the best choices for small or large reef aquariums due to its low maintenance and excellent cleaning habits.
Water Parameters
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Temperature: 24–27°C (75–81°F)
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pH: 8.1–8.4
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Salinity: 1.024–1.026 SG
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Ammonia / Nitrite: 0 ppm
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Nitrate: <10 ppm
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Tank Size: Minimum 20 litres (5 gallons) for small groups; larger systems preferred for stability
Lifespan & Size
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Size: Up to 2.5 cm (1 inch) across shell
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Lifespan: 2–4 years in captivity under proper care
Reef Compatibility
Fully reef safe. The True Orange-Legged Hermit Crab is a top-performing cleanup species that consumes nuisance algae, uneaten food, and detritus without harming corals or other invertebrates. With its bold colour, active nature, and beneficial role, it’s an ideal addition to reef and marine community aquariums.
Interesting Fact
Despite its name, the “True Orange-Legged Hermit Crab” is often referred to interchangeably with the Tricolor Hermit Crab due to natural colour variations. Its electric blue and orange patterning can vary depending on locality and diet, making each individual slightly unique.
