Small crab on birds nest coral

[Smacks21294]

Is this lil guy the reason for the bare spot on my birds nest coral. Any idea what type of crab it is.

 

[Theulli]

Fuzzy legs make me think emerald crab

 

[kev.2013]

I’ve always heard, “if it’s hairy, it’s a scary”. I would not add that to my tank personally.

 

[Smacks21294]

Pulled his little behind out already. Was trying to figure why I had a white spot on coral and than saw him climbing along. Thanks

 

[Double monti 61]

Depends some crabs can exist with your coral and although it may seem the small amount of damage that they may seem to inflict may look harmful to you if the coral is healthy and still growing it may be possible that little crab may be more helpful than harmful.

 

[neonreef3d]

i believe that is a decorative crab, they cut pieces of coral, mostly soft sponges and attach them to their body... if im not mistaken.... put him in the refugium if you have one

 

[monkeyCmonkeyDo]

Acro crab or gorillia crab
Hths
D

 

[KJ]

Is this lil guy the reason for the bare spot on my birds nest coral. Any idea what type of crab it is.

Cymo andreossyi.

 

[Alexopora]

Cymo andreossyi.

Agreed, this is a commensal crab that inhabits sps corals. Much like acro crabs. They generally feed on particles that are trapped in the branches and mucous of sps (mostly pocilloporas, seriatopora/birdsnest, acros). If you offer them a mysis, they would actually take it from you and eat it. I’d suggest leaving it with its host coral.