Pom Pom Crab (Lybia sp.)

Care Level : Easy

Temperament : Peaceful

Color : Tan, White

Diet : Omnivore

Reef Compatible : With Caution

Water Conditions : sg 1.020-1.025, 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4

Max. Size : 1"

Origin : Indonesia

Family : Xanthidae

Supplements : Calcium, Magnesium, Iodine, Trace Elements

Pom Pom Crab (Lybia sp.)  is a species of small crab in the family Xanthidae and is endemic to the Hawaiian Islands. Like other members of the genus Lybia, it is commonly known as the pom-pom crab or boxer crab because of its habit of carrying a sea anemone around in each of its claws, these resembling pom-poms or boxing gloves.

They are a hardy crustacean and are a great beginner invertebrate. The Pom Pom Crab is white to tan in coloration and has darker markings covering the body which serve as camouflage for the crab. This crab carries an anemone in each claw which it uses for defense. Besides defense, the crab will also use the anemones to mop up food off of the rocks and substrate.

Due to their size, they don’t need a large aquarium, making them the perfect choice for a nano set-up. Any stable saltwater aquarium of five gallons or up should work well. Make sure to offer plenty of hiding and foraging spots in the form of live rock, caves, and more.

The species can be a bit timid and likes to be able to retreat if it feels threatened. Keep in mind that it’s not a great idea to combine these crabs with larger, carnivorous fish species. They are compatible with any fish that do not eat crustaceans. Despite their boxer attitude and tendency to hide, they’re still pretty small and vulnerable. 

The Pom Pom Crab is classified as an omnivore but its diet generally consists of meaty foods that it mops up using its two anemones. It also will use its anemones to filter zooplankton out of the water column. The diet of the Pom Pom Crab should include meaty foods such as mysis shrimp, chopped fish and clams.

Size: 1/2" to 1"