New Blasto Merletti

[lizardking38]

Hello All,

I just purchased a beautiful blasto merletti. While I was target feeding the heads, I noticed a little leg pop out and then a small claw. I could not see what type of crab it was, but I have two questions. First, are there commensal crabs with LPS like with anemones? Second, even if it is commensal, should I try to remove it so it does not steal food from the coral? I will try to get a picture of the crab.

Thanks in advance.
Brian

[organism]

I doubt that it's commensual, and I'd definitely get it out before it picks some other spot in your tank to live...

[Julio]

when in doubt always move it out, can you post a pic?

[lizardking38]

Apparently, "innocent until proven guilty" has no place in the reef tank:) I was likely to remove it anyway. It is not worth the risk to keep something I rarely, if ever, see with the coral.

Thanks for the input.

[lizardking38]

Here is a picture. Not the greatest.

http://reefcentral.com/gallery/data/500/85283Blasto-Merletti-1.jpg

[David Grigor]

is the crab in question in the picture. I don't see it......

[lizardking38]

No it is not. The most I have seen is a little bit of a leg and a small part of a claw. I will post a picture when I catch it.

[Zoalander]

Lizard where did you get that piece?

[lizardking38]

From Old Orchard Aquarium's Superbowl sale. Not the most popular place, but great coral prices during the sale.