Strawberry Crab

Neoliomera sp.

Origin	Indo-Pacific — Hawaii and Western Pacific reefs
Maximum Length	2 inches
Minimum Tank Size	20 gallons
Reef Compatibility	Reef safe with caution — primarily an algae grazer

Behavior

The Strawberry Crab is an eye-catching little crab with a rounded, bright red carapace dotted with white or pale spots — exactly like a strawberry. It is largely nocturnal, tucking into rock crevices by day and emerging to graze at night. It is one of the more reef-friendly crabs, feeding mainly on algae and detritus, and its vivid color makes it a fun, decorative addition to the cleanup crew. Its rounded, tucked claws are small and it is generally not aggressive.

Diet & Feeding

Omnivore leaning herbivore. Grazes algae and detritus off the rockwork; also scavenges leftover meaty food. In captivity offer dried seaweed, algae-based foods, and the occasional bit of meaty food to keep it well fed and less likely to bother tank mates.

Cautions

Like nearly all crabs it is opportunistic — a hungry or large individual may occasionally nip a small, slow, or sick tank mate, so keep it well fed. Provide rockwork with crevices for shelter. Leave shed exoskeletons for it to consume for calcium. Sensitive to copper. Generally peaceful, but monitor in a tank with tiny ornamental shrimp.