Acropora Crab

The Acropora crab has a special relationship with SPS corals. It lives within the corals protective branches and may consume some of the coral's mucus and particles trapped therein. In return the crab helps defend the coral against destructive crabs and other pests. The crab also increases water flow through the branches. There are reports that the presence of the Acropora crab can enhance the health of its host. It may prefer Pocillipora corals as its primary host but will also live with Acropora.

The Acropora crab is usually lavender with dark spots, but is sometimes bright red. It grows up to 1 inch and requires a coral host in order to thrive.