Description

The Spotted Porcelain Crab (Neopetrolisthes maculatus), often called the Anemone Crab, is a fascinating and generally peaceful addition to a reef aquarium.

Temperament and Reef SafetyTemperament: Highly Peaceful This crab is a filter feeder that spends most of its time stationary, catching particles with its specialised feather-like mouthparts (setae). Despite having large front claws (chelae), they are primarily used for territorial defence against its own species or for show during mating, not for hunting fish or attacking corals. They are often described as having little pinching power .

Reef Safe: Yes (Generally)Neopetrolisthes maculatus is considered reef safe and poses no threat to corals, other invertebrates, or most peaceful fish.

One Small Caveat: It may opportunistically try to grab broadcast-fed food intended for corals or fish, but it is not a predator.

Host Anemone Highly Recommended in the wild, they live symbiotically on large sea anemones (especially Carpet Anemones or Bubble Tip Anemones). The anemone provides protection, and the crab keeps it clean. While some aquarists keep them without one, they are less stressed, more secure, and exhibit more natural behaviour with a host. Water Flow Moderate to Strong a filter feeder, it needs good, laminar (broad, even) water flow to deliver food particles directly to its filter fans.

Feeding: Filter Feeder Supplementation. An aquarium’s water is usually too clean for a clam to get enough food from filtration alone. You must supplement with small, suspended foods like: Phytoplankton, rotifers, enriched brine shrimp, finely crushed flakes/pellets, or high-quality powdered coral foods.

Compatibility Avoid Aggressive Tankmates They are very vulnerable, especially when moulting. Avoid large, aggressive fish that may view them as a meal, and be cautious with Clownfish, as a dominant clown may try to bully the crab out of its shared anemone. In summary, the Spotted Porcelain Crab is a wonderful, peaceful creature that adds a unique point of interest to a reef tank, provided it has a good water flow and you actively supplement its filter-feeding diet.

Ithas a symbiotic relationship with anemones.

Appearance: White to pinkish body with numerous small red, brown, or purplish spots. It has a flat, rounded carapace and very large, flat claws.

Hobby Behaviour: It is known as the Anemone Crab because it requires or greatly prefers to live protected within the stinging tentacles of a sea anemone (like a Bubble Tip or Carpet Anemone). It is more likely to be seen out in the open (on its host) than other porcelain crabs, making it a favourite for aquarists. It is generally sold as a single specimen or as a mated pair, as they are aggressive toward non-paired members of their own species.