Blue Leg Reef Hermit Crab; Atl. – Paguristes sp.

About this invertebrate

Blue Leg Reef Hermit Crab; Atl. – Paguristes sp. is a saltwater hermit crab from the genus Paguristes, commonly used in reef aquariums as an active scavenger and cleanup companion. In a tank, it helps by picking at leftover foods and detritus, and it may also graze on some biofilm. Because it’s a hermit crab, the practical “must-have” is ample access to appropriate empty shells so it can feel secure and replace its home as it grows.

Features:

• Reef-aquarium scavenger: helps with leftover food and detritus on live rock and substrate
• Hermit behavior adds movement and interest to the display
• Shell-dependent lifestyle—provide empty shells to support natural shell-seeking behavior
• Naturally benefits from stable, well-oxygenated saltwater conditions
• Best kept with peaceful tankmates, as hermit crabs generally aren’t aggressive
• Requires secure access to dry land or rock surfaces for normal activity and resting

Specifications:

• Scientific identity (verified): Paguristes sp.
• Care level (general guidance): Moderate (typical for reef hermit crabs)
• Temperament (general guidance): Generally peaceful
• Diet (general guidance): Omnivorous scavenger; accepts a mix of sinking foods and will graze on films/biofilm
• Temperature (general guidance): ~72–78°F (22–26°C)
• Salinity (general guidance): ~1.020–1.026 specific gravity
• pH (general guidance): ~8.1–8.4
• Calcium/magnesium/alkalinity (general guidance): Support overall reef stability and shell/chitin needs; match established tank parameters