Purple Claw Orange Hermit Crab

Commonly known as the Purple Claw Orange Hermit Crab, is a particularly attractive and somewhat uncommon species of small hermit crab. Its vivid red coloration and distinctive spoon-shaped claws make it both eye-catching and useful in reef aquariums. It helps keep the substrate and rock surfaces clean by consuming leftover food and algae.

• Origin: Indo-Pacific – especially Indonesia, the Philippines, and Papua New Guinea
• Maximum size: about 2–3 cm (depending on shell size)
• Temperature: 24–27 °C (75–81 °F)
• Diet: Algae, detritus, leftover food
• Behavior: Peaceful and active scavenger; requires plenty of empty shells
• Special feature: Due to its small size, ideal for nano and reef aquariums
• Minimum tank size: From 30 L (approx. 8 gal)

Pylopaguropsis speciosa stands out for its bright red coloration and beneficial cleaning behavior. It makes an excellent addition to the aquarium’s clean-up crew, helping maintain balance and cleanliness. Peaceful, compact, and visually appealing, it coexists well with shrimps, snails, and small reef fish.