What to Feed Crabs in a Salt Water Tank

Crabs are the perfect addition to a saltwater aquarium. Not only are these crustaceans fascinating to watch, but they can also serve a very practical function. In their natural environment, crabs are scavengers that help clean the ocean floor, which contributes to a balanced ecosystem. If you provide a healthy living environment for your crab it will save you from tough, time consuming cleanup work; a balanced tank will also provide the majority of your crab's food intake.

  1. Natural food

    • Let your crab(s) eat the things other marine animals don't want. Most crabs find sustenance in algae--which is good because too much algae will lead to an unsightly saltwater aquarium. According to the website Aquatic Connection, if levels of algae are insufficient get some dried seaweed in the tank for the crabs to find.

    Meat and More

    • Larger crabs, such as Sponge Crabs &Sally Lightfoots, will need extra food to supplement their algae intake. Aquatic Connection suggests chopped fish and clams, as well as frozen, flake, and freeze-dried foods. Crabs are opportunistic eaters, so any decaying organic matter is a possible meal. However, if your aquarium is small or void of other living organisms, you may need to regularly introduce the aforementioned supplements.

    Habitats provide food

    • Every crab has evolved itself to a particular aquatic environment. Creating a similar environment inside your aquarium will encourage your crab to forage for food. A sandy sea bottom or a simulated coral reef are good examples of ideal crab environments. An appropriate set-up will have a crab feeling safe in its home and encourage it to seek out and find decaying plants and leftover fish food to consume.