Neopetrolisthes maculatus
Encounter Rate
Spotting Difficulty
Best Season
Year-round
Depth Range
1-20 meters
The porcelain crab is one of the most endearing and commonly encountered small crustaceans on Komodo's reefs, typically found living in a symbiotic relationship with large sea anemones. Despite their name and crab-like appearance, porcelain crabs are more closely related to squat lobsters and hermit crabs than to true crabs. Their smooth, flattened body — usually white or pale with brown or red spots — is perfectly adapted for hiding among the tentacles of their host anemone, where they shelter from predators. Porcelain crabs feed by extending large, fan-like modified mouthparts called maxillipeds into the current to capture plankton and organic particles — a mesmerising feeding behaviour that is fascinating to watch up close. In Komodo, they are commonly found in magnificent sea anemones and carpet anemones alongside clownfish, adding another layer to the fascinating anemone community. They are typically found in pairs, and despite their small size of just 2-3 centimetres, their bold spotted pattern and engaging feeding behaviour make them rewarding subjects for macro photographers who take the time to look beyond the more obvious clownfish.
Average Size
1.5-2.5cm
Size Range
0.5-3cm
Maximum Size
3cm carapace width
Filter feeder that captures plankton and organic particles from the water using large, fan-like modified mouthparts called maxillipeds that it extends into the current.
The porcelain crab is one of the most endearing and commonly encountered small crustaceans on Komodo's reefs, typically found living in a symbiotic relationship with large sea anemones. Despite their name and crab-like appearance, porcelain crabs are more closely related to squat lobsters and hermit crabs than to true crabs. Their smooth, flattened body — usually white or pale with brown or red spots — is perfectly adapted for hiding among the tentacles of their host anemone, where they shelter from predators. Porcelain crabs feed by extending large, fan-like modified mouthparts called maxillipeds into the current to capture plankton and organic particles — a mesmerising feeding behaviour that is fascinating to watch up close. In Komodo, they are commonly found in magnificent sea anemones and carpet anemones alongside clownfish, adding another layer to the fascinating anemone community. They are typically found in pairs, and despite their small size of just 2-3 centimetres, their bold spotted pattern and engaging feeding behaviour make them rewarding subjects for macro photographers who take the time to look beyond the more obvious clownfish.
This species plays an important role in the marine ecosystem of Komodo National Park. Responsible diving practices help protect these animals and their habitat for future generations.
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Check any large sea anemone — particularly magnificent anemones and carpet anemones — and you will likely find porcelain crabs living alongside the clownfish. They are found at most reef sites with healthy anemone populations.
