Need help ID a crab

Cookie_Monster · 09-11-2003, 03:06 PM

Hi all, new here. I just sat up my 20 nano last week and added some live rock to get that cycle rolling. Anyhow I got atleast 4 crabs with the rock. I have an idea what 3 of them are, but the 4th Im clueless about. Its really small so its hard to make out some details. Its claws are org while its back is white with black markings. The thing reminds me of a tick. Any ideas?

Mkelly · 09-11-2003, 03:17 PM

Take a look around for a porcelain (sp?) crab.

And welcome aboard

Cookie_Monster · 09-11-2003, 03:43 PM

I dont think thats it, atleast it doesnt look like any of the ones I saw. I'll post a pic tonight if I can.

MontanaRocknReefer · 09-11-2003, 03:46 PM

From an Hitchhiker Article I read-------------

Quote:

There are many, many crabs that inhabit live rock and are often a real frustrating problem for those that own them. Identifying them is even more problematic due to the sheer numbers of species of crabs found on the reef. There are many species which would cause damage in our tanks, and many more that aren't even described yet. If one were to guess on the species, Family Xanthidae and Family Majidae would probably be the strongest possibilities due to their commoness. It is probably a good idea to remove (if possible) any unidentified crabs before the can become a nuisance. However, think carefully before you decide on a course of action. Diversity is something most desired in reef aquaria, and it would be better leave the crab until there is evidence that it is doing damage. If the crab has been in your tank for a long time and you have no mysteriously damaged corals/missing fish, chances are that the crab is harmless. Innocent until proven guilty....