Sponge Crab (Dromia sp.)

The Sponge Crab, also known as a Decorator Crab, is an interesting crustacean that carries a sponge upon its back for camouflage. They are comical looking crabs that have small front pinches that they use for feeding. They are best housed in a reef aquarium with plenty of live rock for hiding and food.

The Sponge Crab is mostly nocturnal, feeding at night. They will typically harvest sponge for camouflage, but may also harvest tunicates or even polyp corals. This activity may cause harm to some soft or polyp corals, but in the large reef aquarium, this activity actually helps spread and propagate these same corals throughout the aquarium.

The diet of the Sponge Crab should include meaty foods such as frozen brine or mysis shrimp, cockle and pieces of fish.

Approximate Purchase Size: 1-1/2" to 2"

Care details

• Color: Yellow and Tan
• Family: Dromiidae
• Diet: Carnivore