Click to Enlarge Image

Emerald Crab

Emerald Crabs, Mithraculus sculptus, are a native from Atlantic reefs bordering the Americas. This crab is also known as a Mithrax, Clinging, or Green Crab. They are excellent scavengers of uneaten food, preferring to search primarily at night. The emerald crab will also consume Valonia and Ventricaria species of bubble algae. Emerald crabs make an excellent addition to the reef aquarium.

Notes: This species must molt in order to grow. Generally at night, it will lay on its back and exit its exoskeleton. A new exoskeleton is excreted and will harden over a period of several hours. The animal is vulnerable at this time and should not be disturbed. Proper iodine levels assist with successful molting.

Detailed Information about this animal.