Livestock | Marine | Marine Inverts and Snails | Crustaceans

Keeping Crustaceans in Marine Aquariums

Crustaceans are some of the most fascinating and beneficial inhabitants of marine aquariums, ranging from vibrant shrimp and delicate hermit crabs to majestic lobsters and crabs. They not only add movement and interest but often play important roles in reef tank ecosystems, such as algae control, scavenging, and even pest management.

General Care Tips:
Most marine crustaceans thrive in stable tanks with temperatures between 72–81°F and pH around 8.1–8.4. They prefer well-oxygenated water with good water quality, so regular maintenance and filtration are key. Many crustaceans require hiding places—live rock crevices, caves, or artificial shelters—where they can feel secure and molt safely.

Feeding:
Crustaceans are generally omnivorous scavengers. While many will graze on algae and detritus, supplemental feeding is often necessary. Provide them with a varied diet including sinking pellets, frozen or live brine shrimp, mysis shrimp, and marine-specific foods. Some species, like cleaner shrimp, also help maintain fish health by consuming parasites.

Compatibility and Behavior:
Crustaceans vary widely in temperament and compatibility. Small cleaner shrimp and hermit crabs are peaceful and reef safe, great for community tanks. Larger crabs and lobsters may become territorial or prey on smaller tankmates, so research specific species carefully. Avoid housing multiple large predatory crustaceans together to prevent conflict.

Popular Crustaceans:

• Cleaner Shrimp (Lysmata spp.): Famous for their cleaning behavior, peaceful and reef safe.

• Hermit Crabs (Paguridae family): Excellent algae eaters and scavengers, help keep the tank clean.

• Emerald Crabs (Mithraculus sculptus): Popular for controlling bubble algae, generally reef safe but can nip at some corals.

• Scarlet Skunk Cleaner Shrimp (Lysmata amboinensis): Adds color and helps maintain fish health.

• Decorator Crabs: Camouflage themselves with algae and sponges, fascinating to watch but may need specific diets.

Molt Care:
Molting is a vulnerable time for crustaceans. Provide plenty of hiding spaces and avoid disturbing them during this phase. Proper water chemistry and nutrition support healthy molting cycles.

Summary:
Crustaceans are rewarding, active additions to marine aquariums, contributing to tank health and biodiversity. By understanding their needs and behaviors, you can enjoy their unique beauty and helpful roles in your reef system.