Common name: Mexican Red-Leg Hermit Crab

General information

The Mexican Red-Leg Hermit Crab, Clibanarius digueti, is a colorful and active member of the clean-up crew in many saltwater aquariums. They are known for their striking red legs and their beneficial role in consuming detritus, leftover food, and algae, which helps maintain the tank's cleanliness and balance.

These hermit crabs are often found in the Eastern Pacific, from the Gulf of California to Peru, and are well-adapted to a variety of environmental conditions found in tide pools and rocky coastal areas.

Care

Clibanarius digueti is relatively easy to care for. They require a tank with plenty of live rock and substrate to scavenge on and hide. It's important to provide a selection of empty shells of various sizes for the hermit crabs to move into as they grow. They are not aggressive towards other tank inhabitants but may fight with other hermit crabs for shells.

A stable environment with consistent salinity and temperature is crucial for their well-being. They are omnivorous and will accept a wide variety of foods, but it's essential to ensure they receive a balanced diet that includes meaty and plant-based nutrients.

Reproduction

Reproduction in captivity is rare for Clibanarius digueti. In the wild, they have a complex life cycle that includes a planktonic larval stage, which is difficult to replicate in the home aquarium.

Habitat

Mexican Red-Leg Hermit Crabs are typically found in shallow waters, often in tide pools and rocky shorelines where they can find plenty of food and shelter. They are accustomed to the ebb and flow of the tide, which brings in fresh nutrients and food particles.