Pithos Crab – Pitho mirabilis

About this invertebrate

Pithos Crab – Pitho mirabilis is a saltwater crab typically kept in a reef or community aquarium as an interesting bottom-dwelling invertebrate. As a member of the crab group, it can help add natural scavenging/foraging behavior, while also acting like many crabs do—exploring rockwork and using available cover. Use it as a living accent species in your aquascape, and plan tank conditions around stable marine water quality and plenty of hiding places.

Features:

• Scientific identity provided as Pitho mirabilis; this listing is for a crab, not coral
• Bottom-dwelling behavior: commonly spends time on or within live rock and substrate
• Benefits from secure rockwork and crevices where it can retreat and rest
• Will forage and investigate for food particles and detritus commonly available in a mature aquarium
• Like many crabs, it may become more active at feeding time and during low-stress periods
• Stable water quality and consistent salinity are important for invertebrates during acclimation and ongoing care

Specifications:

• Care level: General beginner-to-intermediate for saltwater invertebrates with stable parameters and good hiding places
• Temperature: Typical reef range around 72–78°F (22–26°C)
• Salinity: Typical marine aquarium range around 1.020–1.025 specific gravity
• pH: Target typical reef stability around 8.1–8.4
• Placement: Aquascape/rockwork and low-flow areas with hiding spots
• Diet: Omnivorous/scavenging-style feeding; offer small sinking foods and detritus-based nutrition
• Temperament: Crabs are generally opportunistic; keep in line with tank compatibility for invertebrates