Halloween Hermit Crab (Ciliopagurus strigatus)

The Halloween Hermit Crab is a colorful and lively addition to any reef or marine aquarium. Known for its striking orange and black banded legs, this hermit crab gets its name from its festive Halloween-like coloration. Not only is it visually stunning, but it also serves as an excellent tank cleaner, scavenging uneaten food, algae, and detritus, helping to maintain a healthy tank environment.

Care Information

• Maximum Size: Up to 2 inches.
• Tank Size: 20 gallons minimum; larger tanks provide more room for scavenging.
• Diet: Omnivorous; primarily feeds on algae, detritus, and uneaten food. It is important to provide supplemental foods such as sinking pellets, seaweed, or pieces of fresh shrimp to ensure their nutritional needs are met.
• Water Temp: 72-78°F.
• Salinity: 1.020-1.025.
• Aggression: Generally peaceful but may compete with other hermit crabs or snails for shells. Providing extra empty shells of various sizes is recommended to prevent shell disputes.
• Skill Level: Beginner; hardy and easy to care for, making it suitable for novice aquarists.
• Reef Compatibility: Reef-safe; does not harm corals or other invertebrates, making it an ideal cleanup crew member in reef tanks.

Special Requirement - Extra Shells
Halloween Hermit Crabs frequently change shells as they grow, and they may compete with other invertebrates for shells if there aren’t enough available. Providing a variety of empty shells in the aquarium ensures they can find a suitable home as they grow, reducing the risk of aggression.

Coloration

• Western Indo-Pacific Region: Specimens from this region typically display bright orange and black bands along their legs, adding a pop of color to any tank. The intensity of the coloration can vary slightly based on individual genetics and environmental conditions​.

Typical Habitat

• Distribution: The Halloween Hermit Crab is native to the tropical waters of the Indo-Pacific, particularly around coral reefs and sandy areas where they forage for food. They prefer shallow waters with plenty of hiding spots