Red Leg Hermit Crab

Red Tip Hermit Crab: The Reef Clean-Up Specialist

The Red Tip Hermit Crab (Clibanarius digueti), also known as the Dwarf Red Tip Hermit Crab or Mexican Red Leg Hermit Crab, is a popular and beneficial addition to the marine and reef aquarium trade. They are highly valued as a core member of any clean-up crew due to their voracious appetite for nuisance algae and detritus.

Unlike true crabs, hermit crabs have a soft, vulnerable abdomen which they protect by inhabiting the empty shells of marine snails. As they grow, they must find a larger shell to move into. The Red Tip Hermit Crab is a small species, distinguished by its bright red-tipped legs and often a slight blue or white spotting on its body.

This species is considered one of the best choices for both beginner and advanced hobbyists due to its small size, easy care, and non-aggressive nature toward corals and most tank inhabitants.

Diet & Compatibility:

• Diet: This is a very beneficial Omnivore/Herbivore. They are known for their appetite for a wide variety of undesirable substances in the aquarium, including hair algae, cyanobacteria (red slime algae), detritus, and uneaten fish food. If algae levels are insufficient, supplement their diet with dried seaweed (nori) or quality sinking invertebrate pellets.
• Shell Requirement: Hermit crabs need a constant supply of empty shells to accommodate their growth. You should always provide at least 3-5 empty shells of various sizes, with a slightly larger opening than the one they currently occupy, to prevent them from attacking and consuming live snails for their shell. Popular choices include empty Turbo or Nerite snail shells.
• Reef Compatibility: Reef Safe (with minor caution). They pose no threat to corals. The only potential issue is the possibility of them stealing shells from live snails if not enough empty shells are provided.
• Temperament: Peaceful. They are non-aggressive toward fish and other invertebrates. They are social and thrive when kept in groups.

Quick Facts (Clibanarius digueti)

• Scientific Name: Clibanarius digueti
• Primary Common Name: Red Tip Hermit Crab
• Other Common Names: Dwarf Red Tip Hermit Crab, Mexican Red Leg Hermit Crab, Cortez Red Leg Hermit Crab
• Origin: Coastal waters of Mexico (Eastern Pacific)
• Max Size: Up to 1 inch (2.5 cm)
• Temperament: Peaceful
• Diet: Omnivore (Algae, detritus, and leftover food)
• Minimum Tank Size: 10 Gallons
• Reef Compatibility: Yes (Excellent Clean-up Crew member)