Janitor Hermit Crab

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The Janitor Hermit Crab is a hardworking member of the marine clean-up crew, constantly exploring the aquarium in search of algae, detritus and leftover food. Their small size and active grazing behaviour make them a useful addition to both fish-only and reef aquariums.

Janitor Hermits spend much of their time moving across live rock, sand and aquarium surfaces, helping keep the tank free from accumulated organic waste. They are generally peaceful and reef compatible, although they are opportunistic scavengers and may investigate small snails or other slow-moving creatures if food or suitable shells are scarce.

Provide plenty of natural rockwork and a selection of empty shells in different sizes so the crab can change shells as it grows.

Quick Care Guide

• Scientific Name: Clibanarius sp.
• Difficulty: Easy
• Lighting: Any standard aquarium lighting
• Flow: Low to moderate
• Temperature: 24–27°C
• Salinity: 1.024–1.026 SG
• Diet: Algae, detritus, leftover food and sinking marine foods
• Minimum Aquarium: 30L+
• Placement: Live rock, sand and aquarium surfaces
• Temperament: Generally peaceful
• Reef Compatibility: Generally reef safe
• Shells: Provide spare shells of various sizes

FAQ

What do Janitor Hermit Crabs eat?

They naturally feed on algae, detritus and leftover food. They can also be supplemented with sinking pellets, algae-based foods and other marine foods.

Are Janitor Hermit Crabs reef safe?

Yes, they are generally reef compatible and are commonly used as part of a marine clean-up crew.

Do they need spare shells?

Yes. Providing several appropriately sized empty shells reduces competition for shells and allows the crab to upgrade as it grows.

Can I keep multiple Janitor Hermits?

Yes. They can generally be kept together when sufficient food, hiding places and spare shells are available.

Common Mistakes

Not providing spare shells

A shortage of shells can lead to competition between hermits and other shelled invertebrates.

Adding too many to a new aquarium

A clean-up crew needs an established food source. Excessive numbers can quickly exhaust available algae and detritus.

Keeping them with aggressive fish

Large wrasses, groupers and other predators may eat smaller hermit crabs.

Overfeeding

Too much supplemental food defeats the purpose of having a natural scavenging clean-up crew and can contribute to nutrient buildup.

Assuming they only eat algae

Janitor Hermits are opportunistic scavengers and will consume a variety of available foods.