Red Galathea Squat Lobster Galathea balssi provides aquarists with a reliable scavenger that helps manage leftover food while staying small enough for nano and mid sized reef tanks. Many hobbyists looking into whether squat lobsters are reef safe or what they eat learn that this species adapts quickly when kept in stable conditions with plenty of rock crevices. Its compact size and hardy nature give new and experienced keepers confidence, and availability can be limited at times, making early acquisition helpful when planning livestock additions.

Appearance

The Red Galathea Squat Lobster has a squat body with elongated front arms, slender claws, and red to orange coloration that stands out against rock surfaces. Subtle banding on the legs and claws gives it a distinct outline when it perches or hangs beneath ledges.

Care & Requirements

Stable conditions support long term health, and a mature tank with ample rockwork provides the hiding spaces this species prefers. They are most active at night and rely on ledges and shaded crevices for cover during the day. A minimum 10 gallon tank with temperature between 72 and 78°F, pH from 8.1 to 8.4, and salinity between 1.023 and 1.025 matches common husbandry guidance. Regular feeding with frozen mysis, brine, finely chopped seafood, or sinking pellets ensures they receive enough nutrition, especially in cleaner tanks with fewer natural leftovers. Molting occurs periodically, and consistent parameters help support healthy shell replacement.

What tank size works well?
A 10 gallon system is the minimum, though larger tanks offer greater stability and more places to hide.

How often should it be fed?
Offering small nighttime feedings works well with their natural activity cycle.

Does it require sand or rock structure?
Rock structure is more important, as they rely on crevices and overhangs for shelter.

Tank Mates & Compatibility

The species is generally reef safe with caution, avoiding corals while scavenging for food. Very small fish, tiny snails, or small shrimp may be at risk due to opportunistic feeding. Larger peaceful fish and most invertebrates that are too large to be hunted are suitable companions. Only one Galathea balssi should be kept unless housed in a large tank or confirmed as a compatible pair.

Can it live with small reef fish?
It can coexist with fish that are too large to be considered prey.

Are shrimp suitable tank mates?
Larger shrimp species are typically safe, while very small shrimp may be vulnerable.

Should more than one be kept?
Not unless the tank is large or the pair is known to be compatible.

Aquaculture/Availability

Most Red Galathea Squat Lobsters available in the aquarium trade are wild collected, as captive bred specimens are not widely offered. Availability often changes with collection seasons and shipment timing.

Are captive bred options common?
No, captive bred specimens are not commonly available.

Does size vary between shipments?
Yes, individuals usually arrive as juveniles or subadults depending on collection timing.

Is availability seasonal?
Availability can fluctuate based on collection conditions and shipping cycles.

FAQ

How large does the Red Galathea Squat Lobster get in a home aquarium?
Most individuals reach about 2 inches, including their long arms. This compact size makes them suitable for nano tanks with stable water conditions.

Is it reef safe for mixed coral tanks?
It is generally reef safe with caution. It does not bother corals but may target very small shrimp or tiny fish if food is scarce. Providing rockwork helps reduce contact with vulnerable species.

What foods does it accept besides frozen options?
They readily take sinking pellets, small meaty items, and leftover fish food. Their long arms allow them to reach into crevices to locate hidden food.

How does molting affect behavior?
They often hide more before and after shedding and are vulnerable until their new exoskeleton hardens. Stable parameters support healthy molting.

Can it climb rock structures easily?
Yes, their claws and legs allow them to anchor onto textured surfaces, and they frequently hang beneath overhangs.

Where is Galathea balssi found in the wild?
They occur throughout the tropical Indo Pacific, living among rock crevices and coral rubble.

Does it need special lighting?
Standard reef lighting is sufficient. They remain more active during dim lighting or nighttime.

How active is it during the day?
They are primarily nocturnal and spend much of the day hidden but may emerge more often after acclimation.