Pom Pom Crab

• ExerciseLow

  A calm, unhurried swimmer — peaceful surroundings suit them best.

• GroomingAttentive tank care

  Sensitive to water quality — stay on top of testing and maintenance.

• Living spaceNano-tank friendly

  Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.

• Owner experienceSome experience helps

  A little know-how makes life smoother.

• Commitment2–4 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Molting issues · Nutritional deficiency · Parasites

The Pom Pom or Boxer Crab (Lybia edmondsoni is the Hawaiian species; related Lybia species occur across the Indo-Pacific) is tiny, with a body only about 1.5 to 2.5 cm across. Its defining behaviour is genuine symbiosis: it holds a small stinging anemone in each claw, brandishing them at threats and using them to gather food particles, which it then transfers to its mouth. If it loses one, it can split the remaining anemone in two so that both regenerate. It suits a peaceful nano reef of 40 litres or more at 24-27C, salinity 1.024-1.026, pH 8.1-8.4, with rockwork crevices, stable parameters and no copper. Because its claws are permanently occupied it cannot feed conventionally, so offer finely chopped mysis, brine and powdered foods near its hiding place. It is secretive and largely nocturnal, so expect to see it rarely in a busy tank. Keep it away from fish and larger shrimp that would eat it, and do not attempt to remove or replace its anemones.

• How active is a Pom Pom Crab?

  Low. A calm, unhurried swimmer — peaceful surroundings suit them best.

• How much maintenance does a Pom Pom Crab need?

  Attentive tank care. Sensitive to water quality — stay on top of testing and maintenance.

• What tank size does a Pom Pom Crab need?

  Nano-tank friendly. Happy in a small, stable, well-filtered tank.

• Is a Pom Pom Crab a good fit for first-time owners?

  Some experience helps. A little know-how makes life smoother.

• How long do Pom Pom Crab live?

  2–4 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Pom Pom Crab?

  Keep an eye out for Molting issues, Nutritional deficiency, Parasites. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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