Spider Decorator Crab (Camposcia Retusa)

Species Name : Camposcia Retusa

Care Level : Easy

Temperament : Semi-aggressive

Color : Tan

Diet : Carnivore

Reef Compatible : With Caution

Water Conditions : 72-78° F, dKH 8-12, pH 8.1-8.4, sg 1.023-1.025

Max. Size : 4"

Origin : Indo-Pacific

Family : Majidae

Supplements : Calcium, Magnesium, Iodine, Trace Elements

The Spider Decorator Crab (Camposcia Retusa), also known as Camposcia Decorator Crab or Decorator Crab, is a member of the Majidae family of spider and decorator crabs. It decorates its brown body with sponges, shells, rocks, and other items as a method of camouflage.

Being well camouflaged they are difficult to spot and are probably easier found at night when their eyes reflect light back. If one is lucky enough to see them against a background that does not match their camouflage they resemble a Tarantula spider. The carapace is teardrop shaped and it and the legs are covered in short hairs which allow the crab to attach marine growth onto its body.

The Decorator Crab is easy to maintain and thrives best in well-established reef tanks with a thick sandy bottom. 

It is nocturnal, hunting at night. In the reef aquarium, it harvests algae, soft corals, and invertebrates to adorn its shell. This activity may cause harm to some soft corals, but in the large reef aquarium, this activity actually helps spread and propagate these same corals throughout the aquarium.

The diet of the Spider Decorator Crab should include meaty foods such as chopped fish and clams.

Size: Small: Smaller than 1"; Medium: 1" to 2"; Large: 2" to 3"