Ixa cylindrus crab

Ixa cylindrus – Burrowing Cleaner Crab for Reef Aquarium

Ixa cylindrus is a magnificent reef crab with a discreet but very useful behavior. Recognizable by its flattened carapace and widened lateral legs, it adopts a unique burrowing attitude in the world of aquarium crustaceans. Its natural behavior leads it to bury itself halfway in the sand, leaving only its eyes and upper carapace visible.

A Cleaner Crab for the Aquarium Floor

Highly appreciated for its detritivore qualities, Ixa cylindrus primarily feeds on food remnants that fall to the bottom of the aquarium. It actively participates in cleaning the sand by slightly stirring the surface, which limits the accumulation of organic waste.

To allow it to adopt its natural behavior, it is important to provide it with a fine-grained substrate. Too coarse sand could prevent it from properly burying itself and harm its well-being.

Maintenance Conditions

• Minimum recommended volume: 150 liters
• Temperature: 24°C to 27°C
• pH: 8.0 to 8.4
• Recommended fine sand (1 to 2 mm)
• Moderate water movement

Behavior and Compatibility

Ixa cylindrus is a peaceful crab, mainly active at night or early in the morning. It coexists without problems with fish, corals, and most invertebrates. However, ensure to provide it with regular feeding if there are not enough natural debris in the reef aquarium.

Why Choose Ixa cylindrus?

• Fascinating burrowing behavior
• Excellent detritivore for fine sand
• Peaceful and compatible in community aquariums
• Contributes to substrate cleanliness

Ixa cylindrus is a crab as aesthetic as it is useful. Its atypical appearance and discreet behavior make it a valuable resident for any marine aquarium with a suitable sandy bottom.