Gall crabs - harmless symbionts or damaging parasites?

  • Thread starter Thread starter Jennifish
  • Start date Start date
  • Tagged users Tagged users None

Jennifish

Community Member
View Badges
Joined
Jan 17, 2024
Messages
26
Reaction score
2
Location
Midlands
What state or country do you live in
United Kingdom
Rating - 0%
0   0   0
I’ve recently purchased a trachy, and it’s become apparent there is a couple of gall crabs present. I’ve seen (and been told) different things about them with regards to if they’re harmful/harmless.

Should I remove or leave alone? The trachy is inflating nicely during the day and seems otherwise happy.


20260212_065550_63F67871-531E-4E4B-945A-F0DDE29FB315.png
 
It appears the flesh around the crabs is not the same coloration as the surrounding tissue. They are generally considered harmless and beneficial. Removing them may damage the delicate tissue. I would observe the coral and see if you notice any negative effects of having them reside there.
 
Remove asap would be me. I had one in my elegance and it changed visibly after removing it , more full, more open . They burrow into the flesh and can cause damage
 

TOP 10 Trending Threads

WHICH REEFING SKILL WOULD YOU MOST LIKE TO DEVELOP FURTHER? (CHOOSE UP TO 3)

  • Coral propagation or fragging

    Votes: 2 14.3%
  • Fish or coral breeding

    Votes: 6 42.9%
  • Taking better tank photos

    Votes: 7 50.0%
  • Identifying corals, fish, and hitchhikers

    Votes: 1 7.1%
  • Aquascaping or reef design

    Votes: 3 21.4%
  • Understanding water chemistry and test results

    Votes: 4 28.6%
  • Caring for a challenging species

    Votes: 3 21.4%
  • Other (Post in the comments)

    Votes: 0 0.0%
Back
Top
Home
Post thread…
Market
What's new