Scarlet Reef Hermit Crab Care Guide
Paguristes cadenati is a small Caribbean hermit crab valued in reef aquariums as a peaceful algae grazer and detritus scavenger.
Overview
The scarlet reef hermit crab (Paguristes cadenati) is a small hermit crab in the family Diogenidae, described by Jacques Forest in 1954. It has a bright red body with deep red antennae and yellowish-orange eyestalks. The species is a popular cleanup-crew member in reef aquariums, where it grazes algae and scavenges detritus.
Taxonomy
- Family: Diogenidae
- Genus: Paguristes
- Scientific name: Paguristes cadenati
Habitat
Paguristes cadenati is native to the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea, including southern Florida and the West Indies. It inhabits coral reefs from the intertidal zone down to about 80 metres. Juveniles commonly occupy empty shells of Cerithium and Vasum gastropods.
Tank requirements
- Minimum tank volume: 20 L
- Temperature: 24-27 °C (75-81 °F)
- pH: 8.1-8.4
- Specific gravity: 1.024-1.026
- Carbonate hardness (dKH): 8-12
- Water flow: moderate
- Size: up to about 3 cm
- Lifespan: 2-5 years
Diet
The species is a scavenger that consumes animal and vegetable detritus along with filamentous, hair and slime algae and cyanobacteria. In aquariums it helps control nuisance algae. Empty shells of increasing size should be provided so the crab can move up as it grows.
Reef compatibility
Paguristes cadenati is peaceful and useful for keeping a reef tank clean. It rarely disturbs corals and is among the more reef-suitable hermit crabs. Predators such as pufferfish and triggerfish should be avoided. Provide spare shells to reduce the chance of it attacking snails for their shells.