The Blue Leg Hermit Crab (Clibanarius tricolor) is a small marine invertebrate heavily exploited by the ornamental pet industry. Hermit crabs are unique among higher crustaceans (like shrimp, crabs or crayfish) because they generally utilize snail shells as portable shelters for protection because their body is soft and fragile.
Among hermit crabs, the Blue Legged Hermit Crab is highly valued both because of its aesthetic value and apparent ability to control the small sea anemone Aiptasia spp., considered a nuisance by aquarium hobbyists. In addition to their colorful appearance, they are low maintenance hermit crabs that are very hardy and require little care.