by charlesr1958 » Sun Jun 21, 2009 7:22 pm
That is probably a Phimochirus holthuisi or maybe a Clibanarius species. For the most part, these species, which I can find most commonly in the shallows are very tough creatures and have to be in order to withstand near-shore conditions and will eat just about anything that is available, able to get by on just algae but should something meaty come along, you will find them by the dozens trying to get their share of the protein.
Clams should be okay as they can close up and protect themselves, corals might be at greater risk and for sure, any tube worms or other sessile inverts on the rocks would most likely get eaten in due time. I don't consider any but the Pagurita species to be reef safe, and only this genus group because they never leave their tube dwelling.
I personaly would not add these crabs to my reef aquarium, a fish only tank would be okay though.
Charles
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