Common name: Spotted Porcelain Crab

General information

The Spotted Porcelain Crab, Janira maculosa, is a small and colorful crustacean that is popular among reef aquarium enthusiasts. This species is known for its striking pattern of spots and its flat, rounded body which is adapted for living in tight spaces within the reef. Despite being called a crab, it is actually more closely related to squat lobsters and hermit crabs.

Care

Spotted Porcelain Crabs are relatively easy to care for in a home aquarium. They require stable water conditions and plenty of hiding places among live rock. They are peaceful and can be kept with a variety of tank mates, but should not be housed with aggressive species that may harm them. They are scavengers and will feed on detritus, leftover food, and may even filter feed by extending their feather-like mouthparts into the water column to capture plankton.

Reproduction

In the aquarium, Spotted Porcelain Crabs may breed if conditions are favorable. The female carries the eggs beneath her abdomen until they hatch into larvae, which go through several planktonic stages before settling and developing into juvenile crabs.

Symbiosis

Spotted Porcelain Crabs often share their living space with sea anemones, benefiting from the anemone's protection while offering cleaning services and food scraps in return. This mutualistic relationship is fascinating to observe in a reef tank setting.

Habitat

Janira maculosa is found in the Indo-Pacific region, typically residing in coral reefs and rocky substrates where it can easily hide from predators. They are often associated with anemones, which provide them with additional shelter and protection.