Red Spotted Coral Crab - Trapezia rufopunctata

Red Spotted Coral Crab (Trapezia rufopunctata)

The Red Spotted Coral Crab is a small and distinctive marine crab recognised for its pale body covered with vivid red spotting and its close association with branching corals. Rather than roaming widely around the aquarium, this species typically lives among coral branches where it feeds on trapped food, mucus and small particles while using the coral structure for protection. It is best suited to mature reef aquariums containing suitable branching corals and stable water conditions.

Common Name:
Red Spotted Coral Crab, Red Spotted Trapezia Crab

Scientific Name (Latin):
Trapezia rufopunctata

Maximum Size:
Approximately 2–3 cm across the body

Water Type:
Marine

Origin / Natural Habitat:
The Red Spotted Coral Crab occurs in tropical Indo-Pacific reef environments and is closely associated with branching corals.

It naturally lives within coral colonies, using the branches as shelter while feeding on small food particles and material collected around the coral surface.

Water Parameters:
Temperature: 24–26°C
pH Range: 8.1–8.4
Salinity: SG 1.024–1.026
Nitrate: Low and stable
Copper: Must be avoided

Temperament:
Peaceful to Territorial

The Red Spotted Coral Crab is generally peaceful towards fish and most established reef inhabitants.

It may defend its chosen coral colony from other small crabs or similar inhabitants occupying the same limited space.

Diet:
Omnivore / Opportunistic Feeder

The Red Spotted Coral Crab feeds on coral mucus, trapped plankton, detritus and other small food particles available around its host coral.

In the aquarium, it will also benefit from small amounts of finely chopped marine foods, mysis and other suitable meaty foods where natural food availability is limited.

Minimum Tank Size:
Approximately 50 litres

Aquarium maturity and the presence of suitable branching coral habitat are more important than overall tank volume.

Behaviour & Activity:
The Red Spotted Coral Crab spends most of its time hidden among the branches of suitable corals.

It may remain partially concealed during the day and become more active around feeding time or during quieter periods.

Its close association with coral structure makes it less visible than many free-roaming marine crabs.

Reef Safe:
Reef Safe

The Red Spotted Coral Crab is generally considered reef safe when kept with suitable branching corals.

Its natural behaviour is closely linked with coral colonies, and it does not normally damage healthy coral tissue.

In suitable conditions, its presence may even help remove trapped food and detritus from within coral branches.

Special Requirements or Care Notes:
This species is best maintained in a mature reef aquarium containing suitable branching coral colonies.

Stable salinity and excellent water quality are important for successful long-term care.

Avoid copper-based medications, as copper can be highly toxic to marine crustaceans.

Provide small supplementary meaty foods if natural food availability is limited.

Avoid housing it with large predatory wrasses, hawkfish, triggerfish or other species likely to prey on small ornamental crabs.

Careful acclimation is recommended when introducing the crab to a new aquarium.

Suitable for:
Intermediate

Availability:
Availability can vary depending on season and supplier.

All images are a visual representation of the invert you will receive, made to be as accurate as possible. Please note that Mother Nature is a wonderful thing, and variation in patterns and colours will occur — that is part of the unique beauty of these animals.