Scientific
Name: Mithrax sculptus
Family:
Crustaceans
Common Names: Emerald Crab, Mithrax Crab
Description:
The Emerald crab is easily recognized by it's green heavily sculpted body
and large heavy claws. It has noticeable hairs visible on its hind legs.
Natural Environment:
Tropical western Atlantic
Care:
Reef Suitability: The Emerald crab is a good scavenger
for reef tanks. They are primarily herbivores, but like most crabs
emeralds have the ability to eat things they shouldn't, and are
occasionally accused of picking at corals. They are primarily
nocturnal and usually spend the day hidden in a crevice, coming out at
night to feed.
Disposition: Generally get along well with
other tank inhabitants. In general, the larger the
crab, the more likely they are to become a problem in the tank.
Feeding: They are primarily nocturnal algae eaters and spend their
nights eating
various algae's in the reef tank including hair algae, macro algae and even
bubble algae which is their main claim to fame. I would not count on
them for a total control solution for bubble algae, but they can play a
part.
Hardiness: Very hardy providing they have algae on which
to feed..
Temperature: Does well within normal reef tank temperature ranges of at
least 75-84°F.
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