Elegant hermit crab
Calcinus elegans
Family : Diogenidae
Colorful and active hermit crab, very popular in reef aquariums. It regularly changes shells and helps clean up waste.
Description
Calcinus elegans has bright blue, orange, and white legs and claws, with black eyes on stalks. It reaches up to 4 cm in length (excluding shell). It carries a gastropod shell which it changes as it grows. It is an opportunistic omnivore feeding on algae, detritus, leftover food, and small invertebrates. It is very active and constantly explores the tank. It can be slightly aggressive towards other hermit crabs for shells. It is generally compatible with peaceful fish and corals.
Habitat
Region :
Coral reefs, rocky areas, lagoons
Distribution :
Recommended parameters
Care
Care notes
Parameters: temperature 24-28°C, pH 8.1-8.4, salinity 1.023-1.025, dKH 7-12. Diet: dried algae, herbivore pellets, pieces of shrimp, mussels. A tank of at least 40 liters is recommended for one individual. It needs many empty shells of various sizes to change into. Sandy substrate and rocks are necessary. It can be kept in groups if enough shells are available. Avoid aggressive fish or predatory crabs. It is sensitive to high nitrates. Good oxygenation is important.
Similar species
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