Lybia tessellata - Pom-Pom Crab

The Lybia tessellata, known as the Pom-Pom Crab or Boxer Crab, is one of the most fascinating and popular invertebrates in the marine aquarium hobby. Native to the Indo-Pacific, this small crab from the Xanthidae family is famous for its unique behavior: it carries a small sea anemone (usually Bunodeopsis or Triactis producta) in each of its chelae, brandishing them like a cheerleaders pom-poms or boxing gloves.

Symbiotic relationship with anemones: The crab uses the anemones as a defensive and offensive tool, waving them to ward off predators. The anemones, in turn, benefit from food scraps the crab shares and the mobility that gives them access to new food sources. This mutualistic relationship is one of the most captivating examples of symbiosis observable in an aquarium. If one anemone is lost, the crab is capable of splitting the remaining one in two, stimulating its regeneration.

Feeding: Omnivore-detritivore. Feeds on detritus, small organisms, and food scraps found on the substrate and among rocks. In the aquarium, it accepts a wide variety of foods: mysis, brine shrimp, shrimp pieces, krill, Cyclops, and frozen or freeze-dried foods. The anemones on its claws also capture food particles from the water column, which the crab then consumes. Does not require specific feeding; generally finds enough food on its own, especially in mature aquariums.

Care: Hardy and easy to maintain, suitable for both beginners and experienced aquarists. Requires an aquarium with plenty of live rock where it can find hiding places and food. It is primarily active at night, though it can be observed during the day. Remains small, making it suitable even for nano aquariums. Stable water parameters: sg 1.020-1.025, temperature 22-26°C (72-79°F), dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4. Like all invertebrates, it is sensitive to copper and sudden salinity fluctuations. Acclimation should be done slowly, preferably by drip method.

Behavior: Completely peaceful and safe for any community or reef aquarium. Does not bother fish, corals, or other invertebrates. Can be kept with others of the same species, though they may dispute territory in small aquariums. Spends much of its time hiding among rocks, emerging to feed. Due to its tiny size, avoid keeping it with crustacean-eating fish (such as some wrasses, triggerfish, or hawkfish) that may see it as prey.

Reef Compatibility: Completely safe. Does not harm corals, decorative anemones (except those it uses as tools), mollusks, or other sessile invertebrates. An excellent member of the cleanup crew, helping to consume detritus and food scraps.

Foto ilustrativa. | Illustrative photo.