Description
Neopetrolisthes maculatus, commonly known as the Anemone Porcelain Crab, is a delicate and visually striking symbiotic crab species most often found living among the tentacles of host anemones. This species features a creamy white body adorned with bold red to maroon spots, along with large fan-like mouthparts used to filter plankton from the water column. Graceful rather than aggressive, the Anemone Porcelain Crab adds fascinating behavior and refinement to reef aquariums, especially when observed in close association with its host.
Origin: Maldives (Indian Ocean)
Depth: 1–20 m (3–65 ft)
Lighting: Not demanding; comfortable under standard reef lighting
Flow: Moderate; requires sufficient flow to deliver suspended food particles for filter feeding
Tank Placement: Among host anemones such as Entacmaea quadricolor, Heteractis magnifica, or Stichodactyla species
Temperature: 75–80°F (24–27°C)
Salinity: 1.023–1.026 SG
pH: 8.1–8.4
Diet: Filter feeder – captures plankton and fine particulate foods from the water column; benefits from regular feeding of phytoplankton, fine coral foods, or broadcast feeding
Temperament: Peaceful; non-aggressive and highly tolerant of tankmates
Size: Up to 4 cm (1.5 inches)
Care Level: Easy to intermediate – hardy when provided with appropriate flow and a host anemone
Compatibility: Reef-safe; safe with corals and fish; best kept with an anemone host and away from aggressive crabs or predatory
