Scarlet Hermit Crab, Size Small

Quick Stats:

• Care Level: Easy
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet: Omnivorous
• Reef Safe: Yes
• Minimum Tank Size: 10 gallons
• Maximum Size: 1 inch
• Water Parameters: pH 8.1-8.4, Salinity 1.023-1.025, Temperature 72-78°F

Comprehensive Guide to the Scarlet Hermit Crab (Paguristes cadenati)

Habitat:

The Scarlet Hermit Crab is native to the Caribbean Sea and can be found in rocky and sandy areas. They are commonly found in shallow waters near reefs.

Reef Safe:

The Scarlet Hermit Crab is considered reef safe as it does not typically harm corals or other invertebrates. However, caution should be exercised when keeping them with small or delicate species.

Reef Cleaner:

The Scarlet Hermit Crab is known to be a reef cleaner. It scavenges for leftover food and algae, helping to maintain a clean and healthy environment in the aquarium.

Size:

The Scarlet Hermit Crab grows up to 1 inch in size, making it a suitable choice for smaller aquariums.

Sexual Dimorphism:

There are no significant differences in appearance between male and female Scarlet Hermit Crabs.

Lifespan:

The average lifespan of the Scarlet Hermit Crab is around 2-3 years, although with proper care, they can live longer.

Diet in Aquariums:

The Scarlet Hermit Crab is an omnivorous species and will consume a variety of foods. They primarily feed on algae, detritus, and leftover food in the aquarium. Supplementing their diet with commercial crab or shrimp pellets is recommended.

Aquacultured Availability:

The Scarlet Hermit Crab is currently aquacultured and readily available to hobbyists. This means that they are bred in captivity, reducing the impact on wild populations and ensuring healthier specimens.

Compatibility:

The Scarlet Hermit Crab is generally compatible with most fish, invertebrates, and corals. However, caution should be exercised when keeping them with small or delicate species, as they may harass them. It is recommended to provide plenty of hiding spots and space for each individual.

5 Tankmates:

• 1. Clownfish – They are compatible tankmates and can add vibrant colors to the aquarium.
• 2. Cleaner Shrimp – They can form a symbiotic relationship with the Scarlet Hermit Crab, providing cleaning services.
• 3. Zoanthids – These colorful corals can coexist peacefully with the Scarlet Hermit Crab.
• 4. Gobies – Gobies are peaceful fish that can be good tankmates for the Scarlet Hermit Crab.
• 5. Feather Duster Worms – These filter-feeding worms can add diversity to the aquarium and are compatible with the Scarlet Hermit Crab.

Temperament:

The Scarlet Hermit Crab is generally peaceful and non-aggressive towards other tank inhabitants. However, they may become territorial if there is a limited food source or insufficient hiding spots.

Other Common Names:

Some other common names for the Scarlet Hermit Crab include Red Reef Hermit Crab and Dwarf Red Tip Hermit Crab.

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Popular Questions and Answers:

Q: Can Scarlet Hermit Crabs live in freshwater?

A: No, Scarlet Hermit Crabs are marine species and require saltwater to survive.

Q: Do Scarlet Hermit Crabs require a lot of maintenance?

A: Scarlet Hermit Crabs are relatively low-maintenance. Regular water changes, proper feeding, and monitoring water parameters are essential for their well-being.

Q: Can Scarlet Hermit Crabs be kept in a nano reef tank?

A: Yes, Scarlet Hermit Crabs are suitable for nano reef tanks as they have small space requirements and are generally reef safe.

Q: Can Scarlet Hermit Crabs be housed together?

A: Scarlet Hermit Crabs can be kept together in larger aquariums with ample hiding spots and food sources. However, they may still exhibit territorial behavior.

Q: How often should Scarlet Hermit Crabs molt?

A: Scarlet Hermit Crabs molt periodically as they grow. The frequency of molting can vary, but it is typically every few months.