Overview
The Blue Leg Hermit Crab (Clibanarius tricolor) is a beginner saltwater species known for its blue legs, red-brown shell coloration. Classic reef cleanup crew. All surfaces.
Origin & Appearance
Origin: Caribbean.
Colors: Blue legs, Red-Brown shell.
Body Shape: Crab (wide carapace). Typical adult dimensions: 1.8 x 2.5 x 1.0.
Sexual Dimorphism: Moderate; males have narrower abdomen.
Tank & Water Requirements
| Min Tank Size | 5 gallons |
| Temperature | 75–81°F |
| pH Range | 8.1–8.4 |
| Water Hardness (GH) | dKH 8-12 |
| Bioload | low |
| Oxygen Demand | medium |
| Plant Safe | yes |
| Aquarium Position | All surfaces |
Behavior & Activity
Active reef walker; crawls over rockwork and sand scavenging; swaps shells as it grows; busy movement
Speed: 18/100Aggression: 1/10diurnalSchooling (5+)
Breeding
Not bred at home
Common Diseases
💊 Molt failure💊 bacterial
Expert Notes
Classic reef cleanup crew