Halloween Hermit ciliopagurus strigatus

The Halloween Hermit Crab ( Ciliopagurus strigatus ) is a distinctive hermit crab with legs adorned with alternating bright orange and white stripes reminiscent of Halloween colors. Native to the Indo-Pacific and Hawaii, it is larger and more robust than typical hermit crabs—a powerful cleaner suited to larger tanks.

His role in the baccalaureate

An excellent cleaner of filamentous and encrusting algae. Its size allows it to tackle algae ignored by smaller hermit crabs. Actively stirs up the sandy substrate.

Recommended conditions

• Temperature: 24–27°C — Salinity: 1.023–1.026
• pH: 7.8–8.4 (normal natural day/night fluctuation in a reef tank)
• Alkalinity: 8–10 dKH — Minimum volume: 150L
• Large empty shells required

Behavior

Active and territorial. Its size can make it more aggressive towards other hermit crabs — do not overcrowd. Compatible with corals and reef fish.

Dosage

Maximum 1 per 20–30L due to its size and territoriality.