Common name: Sally Lightfoot Crab

Scientific name: Percnon gibbesi (H.Milne Edwards, 1853)

General Information

The Sally Lightfoot Crab, scientifically known as Percnon gibbesi, is a fascinating and agile crustacean that has captured the attention of marine enthusiasts and aquarists alike. Its sleek body, vibrant coloration, and remarkable climbing abilities make it a unique addition to marine aquariums. Native to tropical and subtropical waters, this species is often found scuttling along rocky shores, coral reefs, and tide pools, where it plays an important role in the ecosystem as a scavenger.

The Sally Lightfoot Crab is named for its quick and nimble movements, which allow it to evade predators and navigate challenging terrains with ease. Its carapace is typically adorned with shades of brown, yellow, and red, often with intricate patterns that provide excellent camouflage in its natural habitat. This species is relatively small but highly active, making it a captivating creature to observe in a well-maintained aquarium.

Details

Estimated price
Affordable
Recommended minimum tank volume
100 liter (26 gallons)
Salinity
S.G. 1.023 to 1.025
Temperature
24 to 27 °C (75 to 81 °F)
Acidity
pH 8 to 8.5
Average size
8 cm (3″)
Care level
Moderate to easy
Diet
Omnivore Feeds on algae, detritus, and occasional meaty treats
Reefsafe
Yes May prey on small fish or shrimp
Aggression
Semi aggresive May exhibit territorial behavior, especially in smaller tanks
Captive bred
No

Taxonomy

  1. Kingdom
    Animals
    Animalia
  2. Phylum
    Arthropods
    Arthropoda
  3. Class
    Malacostracans
    Malacostraca
  4. Order
    Decapods
    Decapoda
  5. Family
    Nimble Crabs
    Percnidae
  6. Genus
    Nimble Crabs
    Percnon Gistel, 1848
  7. Species
    Sally Lightfoot Crab
    Percnon gibbesi (H.Milne Edwards, 1853)
  8. Synonyms
    Acanthopus gibbesi H.Milne Edwards, 1853
    Lonchophorus anceps Eschscholtz, 1825
    Plagusia delaunayi de Rochebrune, 1883
    Zoea boscii Guérin-Méneville, 1857
  9. Source: GBIF | Global Biodiversity Information Facility

Care

Caring for the Sally Lightfoot Crab requires attention to detail, as this species thrives in a stable and well-established marine environment. It is best housed in aquariums with plenty of live rock, which provides hiding spots and surfaces for grazing. These crabs are highly active and require ample space to roam, so a larger tank is recommended for their well-being.

The tank should mimic the crab's natural habitat, with rocky structures, crevices, and overhangs. While they are generally hardy, maintaining stable water parameters is crucial to their health. They are sensitive to poor water quality, so regular water changes and efficient filtration are essential.

Diet and Feeding

Sally Lightfoot Crabs are omnivorous scavengers, feeding on a variety of organic matter in the wild, including algae, detritus, and small invertebrates. In captivity, they should be offered a varied diet that includes algae-based foods, sinking pellets, and occasional meaty treats like brine shrimp or chopped seafood. Providing a mix of natural algae growth and supplemental feeding ensures their nutritional needs are met.

Feed them sparingly, as overfeeding can lead to water quality issues. Observing their feeding habits can also help prevent aggression, as they may become territorial if food is scarce.

Behavior and Compatibility

The Sally Lightfoot Crab is known for its energetic and inquisitive nature. It is a highly active species that spends much of its time exploring the tank, climbing on rocks, and scavenging for food. While generally peaceful, it may exhibit territorial behavior, especially in smaller tanks or when food is limited.

This species is considered reef-safe with caution. While it typically does not harm corals or other invertebrates, it may prey on small fish or shrimp if it perceives them as food. Careful consideration should be given when housing them with delicate or slow-moving tank mates.

Health and Common Issues

With proper care, the Sally Lightfoot Crab can live for several years in captivity. Maintaining optimal water quality, a balanced diet, and a stress-free environment are key to their health. When selecting a crab, look for individuals with intact limbs, vibrant coloration, and active behavior.

Common health issues include molting complications and stress from poor water conditions or aggressive tank mates. Providing a stable and enriched environment can help prevent these problems.

Habitat

In the wild, Percnon gibbesi is found in tropical and subtropical regions, including the Atlantic Ocean, Caribbean Sea, and parts of the Mediterranean. It inhabits rocky shorelines, coral reefs, and tide pools, where it uses its agility to navigate complex terrains and evade predators.

This species prefers environments with plenty of hiding spots and access to algae, which forms a significant part of its diet. Replicating these conditions in captivity helps ensure its well-being and allows it to exhibit natural behaviors.