Black Mithrax Crab

Chlorodiella nigra

The Black Mithrax Crab is well respected for its scavenging ability. It will enthusiastically feed on uneaten meaty foods and many types of nuisance algae.

Native to the reefs of the Indo-Pacific, the Black Mithrax Crab is nocturnal and hides in caves and amongst rubble during the day. In the home aquarium, this member of the Majidae family requires a well-established aquarium with plenty of rockwork and hiding places.

Care needs to be taken to ensure an ample supply of food is available for the Black Mithrax Crab. Many aquarists supplement the Black Mithrax Crab's diet with dried seaweed and chopped meaty foods, such as shrimp, as well as a quality pellet fish food.

Otherwise, this opportunistic feeder may turn to corals, invertebrates, or small fish for a food source. However, when well fed, most Black Mithrax Crab are very tolerant of their tankmates and highly compatible in reef environments. Like other invertebrates, the Black Mithrax Crab does not tolerate copper-based medications or fluctuating water parameters.