Boxer Crab

Geographical Origin and Habitat: Distributed across the Indo-Pacific, residing in coral rubble, rocky shallow flats, and under loose stones.

Taxonomy: Classified within the Xanthidae family. A tiny crab with specially adapted claws designed to hold small sea anemones (*Triactis* or *Bunodeopsis*).

Social Behavior: Very peaceful and cryptic. It remains hidden under rocks, waving its anemones like boxing gloves to deter potential predators.

Coloration and Sexual Dimorphism: Body is light brown or cream with a mosaic pattern. The held anemones are translucent white. No external sexual differences.

Tank Setup: Highly suited for nano-reefs of at least 5 gallons with sandy substrate and small rock crevices where they can retreat.

Diet and Feeding: Omnivorous. It uses the anemones to mop up detritus and food particles from the sand. Supplement with fine frozen food and micro-pellets.

Water Quality: Requires clean, stable marine water: pH 8.1-8.4, temperature 22-28°C, salinity 1.023-1.025, and zero copper content.

Compatibility and Tankmates: Safe with corals and tiny passive fish. Do not house with aggressive fish that might bully the crab into dropping its anemones.

Aquarium Breeding: Spawning is common, with the female carrying a red egg mass. Rearing the planktonic larvae is extremely difficult.

Risks and Diseases: Losing its anemones due to stress or predatory fish. Extremely sensitive to copper treatments and osmotic shock.