Spiny Reef Crab

Care Summary

The Spiny Reef Crab, also called the Channel Clinging Crab, is one of the largest true reef crabs available in the hobby, with a leg span that can reach well over a foot across. It needs a big system with substantial rockwork to explore, and while it's often sold as a macro algae controller, it can become a problem for corals and slow-moving invertebrates as it grows. Size is the main management challenge here, because juveniles are manageable but adults are powerful enough to move rockwork and harass larger tankmates if they aren't getting enough to eat. Feed it generously with meaty foods and algae-based supplements several times a week to reduce its tendency to opportunistically sample your corals or other invertebrates.