Emerald Crab – Mithraculus sculptus
Difficulty: Easy
Aggression Level: Semi-aggressive
Color: Green
Diet: Omnivore
Water Parameters: Temperature: 72-78°F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, specific gravity 1.023-1.025
Size: 2″
Origin: Caribbean
Family: Majidae
Required Nutrients: Calcium, Magnesium, Iodine, Trace Elements
The Emerald Crab is well respected for its scavenging ability. It will enthusiastically feed on uneaten meaty foods and many types of nuisance algae. Unlike many other animals, Mithraculus sculptus will eat bubble algae and helps clean your aquarium of these algae. Its distinct, fluted carapace and bright green color make it a popular choice for reef tanks.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Species | Mithraculus sculptus |
| Size | 2 inches |
| Water Temperature | 72-78°F |
| Water pH | 8.1-8.4 |
| Water dKH | 8-12 |
| Specific Gravity | 1.023-1.025 |
| Diet | Omnivore |
| Aggression | Semi-aggressive |
| Color | Green |
| Origin | Caribbean |
| Family | Majidae |
| Key Nutrients | Calcium, Magnesium, Iodine, Trace Elements |
FAQ
What kind of food does the Emerald Crab eat?
The Emerald Crab is an omnivore and will eat uneaten meaty foods, nuisance algae, and bubble algae. It helps maintain tank cleanliness by consuming algae that can otherwise grow unchecked.
Is the Emerald Crab suitable for a reef aquarium?
Yes, the Emerald Crab is well-suited for reef tanks due to its ability to consume nuisance and bubble algae, helping to keep the tank environment balanced.
What water conditions does the Emerald Crab require?
It thrives in water with a temperature of 72-78°F, pH between 8.1 and 8.4, dKH of 8-12, and specific gravity of 1.023 to 1.025.

Thomas North –
I added an Emerald Crab to my 55-gallon reef tank and it has been a great addition. It actively eats algae and leftover food, which keeps the tank cleaner. It’s not aggressive and fits well with other tank inhabitants. The green color is striking and it looks natural in the tank.
Kevin Parr –
The crab has been in my tank for two months now and it’s doing well. It eats bubble algae regularly and helps reduce the buildup of organic matter. I appreciate that it doesn’t stress other fish. Easy to care for and a good value for the benefits it provides.
Christopher Hart –
I was worried about introducing a new species, but the Emerald Crab has been peaceful and effective. It cleans up algae I didn’t even notice before. The water parameters are stable, and it seems to adapt well to the tank conditions.