Harlequin Tusk and hermits?

[b volitans]

can I put Hermit crabs in my tank to help clean my substrate with a Harlequin Tusk? I know they eat crustaceans but can they eat hermits? I'm thinking of putting small hermits like scarlets in my tank. I also have a Banded coral Shrimp that is very edible to my Tusk and even picks on the Tusk but he has not been eaten in the month that I have had them living together. wondering if anyone has a Harlequin Tusk and hermits co-existing...

 

[gliuomo]

I have a Harlequin Tusk in my tank. I also have about 5 Hermit crabs in my tank. I have two that are a pretty good size and the other three are small.(but they are bigger than scarlet hermits). My Harlequin Tusk does not mess with the Hermits at all. So I think you should be Okay

 

[razi burney]

Small crustaceans will be gone soon. No question about it. Seems like that you are keeping the tusk well fed and happy. He will get them the day he feels like.

 

[wanabebell]

I know my harlequin would love me if i put a hermit crab in for him

 

[nm reef]

The major reason I've never considered any of the aggressive species available is the tenacy they have of munching crabs/shrimp and snails. personally I like the diversity and prefer to have micro infauna along with the normal cleaners associated with reefs.....any of the aggressive species will have a tendacy to view the diversity I prefer as a snack and the potential loss is more than I care to risk.In my mind it is a choice between one and the other......

 

[titan]

IMO Red-Starry Hermits wouldn't have a problem surviving. I've got a fair sized one with Triggers, and a Toby. He tough,tumble,big and doesn't take no crap. He doesn't go on the rocks; just keeps the SB grubbed.