Need an id if possible

[Pirate Randy]

This is the second time I found this in my tank. It is a molt but I have not seen the real thing. Can someone tell me what it is from the molt and also, do I need to worry about trying to locate and remove it.

 

[twilliard]

Looks like a rock crab :-) watch those guys! Oh and they can get big

 

[4FordFamily]

Mithrax ruber?

Google image them, I think some call them scarlet crab (as opposed to emerald crab because they look similar)

 

[Pfisherman]

I thought it looked like a red mithrax as well. I'd hope for the rock crab though, catch that puppy and throw it in the sump and fatten him up. Drop in boiling water and serve.

 

[fab]

So... what devilment will this crab do if left to grow in the display tank?
fab sends

 

[Pirate Randy]

So far I am guessing that all it has done is scavenge some morsels that were not eaten my the other inhabitants. I am a little fearful that it might get an appetite for my zoas/palys. Then I would be mad.

 

[Salty1962]

Pluck it out if in doubt!

 

[Pirate Randy]

That's the plan if I can find the actual living creature