Horseshoe Crab

The Horseshoe Crab is an unusual marine arthropod with a broad armored body and a long tail used in movement and righting. It spends much of its time searching through substrate rather than climbing reef rockwork like an ordinary crab.

Plan for a large, open sand area and substantial growth. Its feeding needs include suitable animal foods and the small organisms found within sand; freshly added or heavily depleted substrate is not a dependable food supply. Confirm that food reaches the animal instead of assuming that buried activity means it is eating enough.

A crowded reef with sharp obstructions is a poor habitat. Avoid handling by the tail and protect the underside during transfers. The broad common name covers different species, so temperature and ultimate housing plans should be matched to the identified animal before purchase.