What Are Reef Tank Janitors and What Do They Do?

What exactly are reef janitors? Well, whether you call them janitors, custodians, cleaners or what have you, the term reef janitors refers to a compilation of different kinds of crustaceans and invertebrates that act as nature's little helpers by performing various cleaning tasks. Some are strictly algae eaters, others eat algae and consume detritus and debris off the ocean floor, while others are sand sifters and filter feeders. With the many tasks these little critters perform in nature, what better way to maintain a clean and tidy saltwater aquarium than to let them do the job for you.

Tank janitors are considered a "must have" in reef tanks, and are by all means suitable for fish-only aquariums, but only as long as the janitors you choose are suitable for beginners (if you are just getting started in the hobby), and are compatible with the fishes and invertebrates (including corals) that you have or may be planning to keep in your particular type of system.

So, with such as vast array of crustacean and invertebrate species to choose from, how do you know which ones to get? To help answer this question, here are profiles we have compiled on some of the most common reef tank janitors that will help you better understand these animals, and which species within these groups may or may not be suitable choices.

• About Hermit Crabs
• About Snails
• About Shrimps
• About True Crabs
• About Sea Urchins
• About Sea Cucumbers
• About Starfishes