Description:

The white-spot hermit crab (Dardanusmegistos) is a large and striking marine hermit crab known for its vibrant red or orange body covered in white spots with black or blue edges. It is a popular, but demanding, species in the aquarium trade.

Habitat and Care
Tank Size: Due to its large size (up to 8 inches/20 cm), this species requires a large aquarium, ideally 75 gallons or more.

Water Parameters: They are not fussy about water quality and can tolerate a temperature range of 70-83F (21-28C) and a specific gravity of 1.022-1.026.

Substrate: Provide a deep, open sandy substrate for movement, as well as stable live rock structures for climbing and shelter. It’s crucial to secure rockwork to prevent it from collapsing when the crab moves or digs.

Shells: Like all hermit crabs, they need a constant supply of appropriately sized spare shells to move into as they grow.

Compatibility: This is a highly aggressive and territorial species. It is not considered “reef-safe” and may prey on snails, other hermit crabs, and even small fish if not well-fed. It is best to keep them alone or with large, robust tank mates. In the wild, they are known to attach stinging anemones to their shells for protection.

Diet
Omnivorous Scavenger: The white-spot hermit crab is an opportunistic omnivore. Its diet should consist of a variety of foods, including leftover meaty foods (shrimp, fish, clam), algae, detritus, and prepared foods like pellets or wafers.

Caution: If underfed, it will actively hunt small fish and invertebrates.

Lifespan
In the wild, hermit crabs can live for up to 30 years or more. However, in captivity, the lifespan can be much shorter, often only a few months to a couple of years, due to improper care. With a properly maintained habitat, they can live for many years.