Hermit Crab with Anemone

General information

The hermit crab, Dardanus sp., is very unique because of its symbiotic relationship with the sea anemone, Calliactis polypus. The two have a mutual relationship wherein the crab helps the sea anemone spread out in the wild while the anemone protects the crab through forming a camouflage. However, this crab is aggressive, making it a poor candidate for aquarium use. It can grow up to 2 to 4 inches. Like all the other hermit crabs, it also lives inside empty mollusk shells. When it outgrows its shells, it transfers the anemone into the shell and finds a larger shell to live in and a larger anemone as well. 

It is an omnivore that mainly subsists on algae, molluscs, worms, and other meaty items. When the food is insufficient, it can be fed with dried seaweed.

Like most invertebrates, the Dardanus sp. does not do well if there are large swings in water parameters. It also does not tolerate any type of metal traces in the water, therefore, it should never be in contact with any copper medications.

Most invertebrates do not like large swings in water parameters and the Dardanus sp. is not an exception, so even though most hobbyists do not acclimate their cleaner crews it is suggested to do so. If you have a sump, float your cleaner crew in an area with low light to allow them to temperature acclimate first which should take about 15-20 min. Then it is best to slowly drip acclimate them to allow them to adjust to your water conditions.