Red Leg Hermit Crabs (Paguristes cadenati) are a species of hermit crab found in the shallow waters of the Caribbean Sea and Western Atlantic. They are popular in the home aquarium trade for their bright coloration and algae-eating habits, making them a favorite addition to reef tank clean-up crews. Their varied diet includes algae, detritus, and leftover food, helping to keep aquariums clean and balanced. Common names for this species include Scarlet Reef Hermit Crab, Red-legged Hermit Crab, and Scarlet Hermit Crab.

Red Leg Hermit Crab

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The Red Leg Hermit Crab is a popular little cleaner for saltwater aquariums. With its bright red legs and yellow eye stalks, it adds a splash of color while helping keep the tank tidy. These hermits are natural scavengers, eating leftover food, detritus, and algae—including tough hair algae that many aquarists struggle with.

They stay pretty small (usually around 1 inch), so they’re safe for reef setups and won’t bother corals. However, like most hermits, they can sometimes fight with other crabs or snails over shells. Providing plenty of extra empty shells in different sizes helps reduce this behavior.

Red Leg Hermit Crab

Species Highlights