Common name: nimble spray crab

General information

The Sally Lightfoot Crab, Percnon gibbesi, is a colorful and active species that adds both aesthetic and functional value to a saltwater aquarium. Known for their agility and speed, these crabs are often seen darting across rocks and sand in search of food. They exhibit a striking coloration with a brown to yellow carapace and bright blue to purple accents on their legs and claws.

Care

Sally Lightfoot Crabs are relatively easy to care for, provided they have ample space to roam and a variety of surfaces to climb on. They are excellent scavengers, feeding on algae, detritus, and leftover food, which helps keep the tank clean. However, they may also prey on small, slow-moving fish or invertebrates, so tank mates should be chosen with care.

Reproduction

In the wild, Percnon gibbesi breeds seasonally, with females carrying eggs beneath their abdomens until they hatch. In captivity, breeding is less common, but with optimal conditions, it is possible to observe larval stages in the aquarium.

Habitat

Native to the tropical Western Atlantic and the Caribbean, Sally Lightfoot Crabs are found in a range of habitats from rocky shores to coral reefs. They are well-adapted to intertidal zones and can often be seen basking in shallow waters.