Limulus polyphemus, commonly referred to as the horseshoe crab, is a remarkable marine invertebrate prized for its ancient lineage and distinctive morphology. This small variant is ideal for experienced marine aquarists interested in maintaining a unique and ecologically significant species.
Care Level: Moderate to advanced. Horseshoe crabs require stable water parameters and a suitably large tank with a sandy substrate to mimic their natural habitat.
Feeding: Limulus polyphemus is a scavenger and detritivore, feeding primarily on small molluscs, worms, and organic detritus. In captivity, provide a varied diet including meaty foods such as chopped mussels, shrimp, and specialised invertebrate pellets to ensure nutritional balance.
Compatibility: Generally peaceful but best kept with non-aggressive tank mates. Avoid housing with predatory fish or invertebrates that may harm the horseshoe crab. They are not reef safe as they may disturb delicate coral polyps and substrate.
Reef Safety: No. Due to their burrowing behaviour and feeding habits, they can disrupt reef structures and damage corals.
Tank Requirements: A minimum tank size of 150 litres is recommended to provide ample space for movement and substrate depth. Use a fine sandy substrate at least 5 cm deep to allow natural burrowing behaviour. Moderate water flow and stable water conditions are essential.
Water Parameters: Maintain temperature between 20-24°C, salinity at 1.023-1.025 SG, pH 8.1-8.4, and stable ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels.
Placement: Place the horseshoe crab on the substrate in a quiet area of the tank with minimal disturbance.
Origin: Native to the western Atlantic coast of North America.
Maximum Size: Up to 60 cm in length in the wild; small specimens typically sold for aquaria are considerably smaller.
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