Hitch Hiker Discovered

During my daily observations of my aquarium I have come to discover a Hitch Hiker hidden among the branches of my Acropora (http://www.talkingreef.com/forums/member-tank-projects/4034-jaybedriftens-45-gallon-cube-reef-aquarium-2.html#) Coral? Although he is extremely hidden and oblivious to my camera I managed to find a stock photograph on Reef Central. Can someone please identify what this creature is? Also identification of the type of Acropora (http://www.talkingreef.com/forums/member-tank-projects/4034-jaybedriftens-45-gallon-cube-reef-aquarium-2.html#) I have would also be greatly appreciated. I would like their Latin names as well if possible.

http://i38.photobucket.com/albums/e102/Jasonanatal/47%20gallon%20Reef%20Aquarium/tn_crab_acro_jpg.jpg

You could ask Louis. Ho won tank of th emonth over there so he's easy enough to find. Nice guy.

That's a bandit acro crab, either Tetralia nigrolineata or Tetralia rubridactyla. These crabs are obligate commensals that won't survive if theyre removed from the host Acropora. They get shelter & food from the acro. In return, they keep the acro clean & defend it from predators. Scientific studies have shown that acros with crabs live longer, grow faster, & in general are healthier than acros without crabs.

Lucky hitchhiker!

Thank you Leslie..... I feel lucky! :tongue2: