Mystery crab

[sailfin]

Hi!

I just saw this rather big crab. I have no idea what it is. Can anyone identify it? Should I be worried? I never saw it before and I am lucky I could get a picture.

Any help will be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

Ann

[gwen_o_lyn]

You may have to get a better pic... hard to see

[christensonjes]

Pic is too small.

[sailfin]

Sorry for the small picture, I reduced it to make sure it I could post it. It was the clearest I had . I'll try to get another one. The crab blends in with the rock and my camera isn't that good. The critter has a white body with purple on the back and the legs. Its pincers are black and a bit intimidating. It is about maybe 3/4 inch in diameter. It seems to be eating stuff on the rocks and some of the algae. But my previous experience with hitchiking crabs (I lost a starfish to one) dictates caution. I am really tempted to take it out.

[Marauder-m]

if in doubt... take it out. But put it somewhere that it can survive for a little while until you figure out what it is. that way you can put it back in if its OK.

[ZeroKoolNYC]

Originally Posted by Marauder-m

if in doubt... take it out. But put it somewhere that it can survive for a little while until you figure out what it is. that way you can put it back in if its OK.

I gotta say I agree with Greg on this one. Better to be safe then sorry. Wouldn't want to cause an issue in an established tank by having something inside that you have no clue the benefits or possible disaster it could cause.

[Marauder-m]

who's Greg?

[V]

your name has officially changed! who said you cant see progress happen!!:? :?

[Reefbaby]

from the picture (thought it's a bit sketchy) - I had a hitchhiker that looked pretty similar. Since he didn't have yucky, hairy legs, I decided to keep him. He ended up being great. He was constantly eating algae off the rocks and his favorite spot was in the sump. I put him back in the main display about five times and eventually gave up, because he always returned to the sump. He never hurt anything and didn't pick on the starfish. Unfortunately, after about one and half years, he died. dont' know why...

[V]

the crab was on a pilgrimage, when u left him alone to discover the path, he assended to a higher plan of existance!