Description
True White-Legged Hermit Crab (Clibanarius tricolor)
(Also known as Blue Leg Hermit Crab, Tricolor Hermit Crab, or Caribbean Blue Leg Hermit Crab)
Overview
The True White-Legged Hermit Crab (Clibanarius tricolor) is a small, vibrant marine invertebrate prized for its cleaning abilities and striking coloration. Characterised by its bright blue legs with white bands and orange antennae, this crab is a favourite in reef aquariums for its effectiveness in controlling nuisance algae and detritus. Peaceful, active, and reef safe, the C. tricolor makes an excellent addition to most marine cleanup crews, helping to maintain a healthy and balanced ecosystem.
Origin
Native to the Caribbean Sea, Gulf of Mexico, and parts of the Western Atlantic Ocean. Commonly found in shallow reef flats, tidal zones, and sandy lagoons, where it scavenges among rocks and coral rubble.
Feeding
An omnivorous scavenger, the True White-Legged Hermit Crab will feed on a variety of materials within the aquarium:
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Algae (including hair algae and film algae)
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Detritus and uneaten fish food
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Leftover meaty foods or sinking pellets
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Seaweed sheets (nori) and algae wafers as supplements
Although it primarily feeds on what it finds naturally, offering small amounts of food a few times per week helps ensure health and reduces shell-related aggression.
Behaviour and Tank Role
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Highly active and constantly foraging, this crab plays a key role in maintaining a clean substrate and rock surface.
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Known for its peaceful nature, though occasional disputes may arise over shells.
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Will climb live rock and corals in search of food, rarely causing harm.
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Requires a variety of empty shells of different sizes to prevent aggression and accommodate growth.
Tank Mates
Reef safe. Excellent companion for:
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Peaceful reef fish (gobies, blennies, tangs, clownfish, etc.)
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Other small crabs and shrimp (if provided enough space and shells)
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Snails (but may target them for shells if replacements are scarce)
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Corals and invertebrates — generally safe and non-destructive
Avoid:
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Predatory fish (e.g., triggers, puffers, large wrasses) that may eat or harass hermit crabs
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Aggressive crab species that compete for space or shells
Aggression
Peaceful, with mild opportunism. Shell disputes are the main cause of aggression. Provide ample empty shellsslightly larger than the crab’s current size to avoid such conflicts.
Experience Level
Beginner. Clibanarius tricolor is hardy, low-maintenance, and adaptable — ideal for new marine aquarists and established reef keepers alike.
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 gallons (75L) recommended for a small group
Maintain good water quality and stable salinity for long-term health.
Lifespan & Size
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Size: Up to 2.5 cm (1 inch) across the shell
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Lifespan: 2–4 years with proper care and diet
Reef Compatibility
Fully reef safe. The True White-Legged Hermit Crab is a valuable and attractive member of any reef cleanup crew. It helps control algae growth, turns the substrate, and consumes leftover food — all while adding lively colour and character to the aquarium.
