Decorator Crab

The Decorator Crab camouflages itself by attaching material from its surroundings to its body. That behavior can make it blend remarkably well into rockwork, but also determines whether it is a sensible addition to a coral display.

Provide rocky shelter and offer small portions of marine meaty foods. Decorator crabs are often most active after dark, so place food near a known retreat and observe feeding at a time when the animal is out. Do not assume a camouflaged crab is inactive simply because it is difficult to spot.

Decoration may involve taking pieces of algae, sponges, or living corals. This can damage valued specimens, particularly in a small or tightly stocked reef. Choose a setup where that behavior is acceptable and where the crab can be separated if it begins harvesting animals you want to preserve.