Description
Pom pom crabs are about 0.5-1 inch wide on average.
The Tiny Boxer of the Reef
Prepare to be charmed by one of the most unique and fascinating creatures in the marine aquarium hobby: the Pom Pom Crab. This minuscule crustacean, also known as the Boxer Crab, is famous for its incredible symbiotic relationship with tiny sea anemones. It carries a living anemone in each of its claws, which it waves around like a cheerleader's pom-poms or a boxer's gloves.
This is not just for show; the stinging tentacles of the anemones serve as a brilliant defense mechanism against predators and are also used to "mop up" tiny food particles from the rockwork. In return, the anemones get a free ride to new feeding locations. With an intricate, mosaic-like pattern on its tiny shell, this peaceful and completely reef-safe crab is a true gem, especially for nano and pico reef aquariums where its amazing details can be fully appreciated.
Why the Pom Pom Crab is a Nano Tank Gem:
- Fascinating Symbiosis: Witness a classic example of natural cooperation, as the crab and its anemone partners live and work together.
- Perfect for Nano Tanks: Its incredibly small size (rarely exceeding a 1-inch carapace) means it has a very low bioload and is ideal for smaller aquariums.
- Completely Reef Safe: This crab is a model citizen. It will not harm any corals, fish, or other invertebrates.
- Unique & Beautiful: The intricate pattern on its shell and the novelty of its "pom-poms" make it a captivating and rewarding find for any aquarist.
Care & Specifications
The Pom Pom crab is hardy, but its tiny size and shy nature require some special considerations, particularly regarding feeding and tank mates.
Feeding: The Most Important Consideration Due to its small size and gentle nature, the Pom Pom Crab is easily outcompeted for food. Target feeding is often necessary to ensure it gets enough to eat.
- Diet: Omnivore / Scavenger.
- Recommended Foods: They require very fine food particles. Finely minced mysis shrimp, enriched brine shrimp, cyclops, and high-quality powdered coral foods are all excellent choices.
- Feeding Method: Use a pipette or turkey baster to gently release a small cloud of food directly in front of the crab. This ensures it can collect the food with its anemones without competition.
Tank Requirements:
- Minimum Tank Size: 5 Gallons or larger.
- System Maturity: Best suited for a mature, stable aquarium with plenty of live rock.
- Aquascape: A complex rock structure with many small caves and crevices is essential for this shy crab to feel secure.
Water Parameters:
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Temperature: 72−78°F (22−25.5°C)
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Specific Gravity: 1.023−1.025
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pH: 8.1−8.4
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Ammonia, Nitrite, Nitrate: As close to 0 ppm as possible.
Compatibility:
- Temperament: Extremely peaceful, shy, and reclusive.
- Tank Mates: Must be housed with other small, peaceful inhabitants. Ideal tank mates include small gobies, peaceful shrimp (like Sexy Shrimp), and other nano creatures.
- Avoid: Do not house with any aggressive or even moderately bold fish, such as Wrasses, Hawkfish, Dottybacks, or larger crabs and shrimp that could easily prey on this tiny crab.
A Note on Molting: If a Pom Pom Crab loses an anemone during a molt, it has been observed to meticulously split its remaining anemone into two, cultivating a new "pom-pom" over time!
Acclimation: IMPORTANT: This is a delicate and tiny invertebrate. To prevent shock and ensure a smooth transition, slow drip acclimation over a period of at least 60-90 minutes is mandatory.
