Hermit crabs are a popular pet for many people who love their unique personalities and interesting colors. In the United States, there are six common types of hermit crabs that are kept as pets.
1. CaribbeanHermit Crab
The Caribbean hermit crab, also known as the Purple Pincher, is the most common species of hermit crab found in pet stores. They are named for their distinctive purple claws. Caribbean hermit crabs are found in the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico. They are popular pets due to their docile nature and ease of care. They require a humid environment and can live up to 30 years with proper care.
2. EcuadorianHermit Crab
The Ecuadorian hermit crab, also known as the Pacific hermit crab, is native to the Pacific coast of South and Central America. They have a unique coloration with bright orange claws and legs. They are larger than the Caribbean hermit crab and are known to be more active. They require a warm and humid environment and can live up to 20 years.
3. StrawberryHermit Crab
The Strawberry hermit crab, also known as the Little Red, is a small hermit crab native to the Caribbean. They are named for their bright red coloration and small size. They are popular pets due to their vibrant color and small size, making them easy to keep in small tanks. They require a warm and humid environment and can live up to 10 years.
4. CoenobitaBrevimanus
Coenobita Brevimanus, also known as the Indonesian hermit crab, is found in the Indo-Pacific region. They are known for their distinctive blue claws and legs. They are larger than most hermit crabs, and require a lot of space in their tanks. They are also known to be more active and have specific dietary requirements. With proper care, they can live up to 20 years.
5. CoenobitaClypeatus
Coenobita Clypeatus, also known as the Caribbean land hermit crab, is native to the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico. They are known for their distinctive greenish-blue claws and legs. They are one of the larger species of hermit crabs and require a warm and humid environment. With proper care, they can live up to 30 years.
6. Striped Hermit Crab
The Striped hermit crab, also known as Ciliopagurus Strigatus, is native to the western Atlantic Ocean, and is between 1 and 2 inches long. They have elongated bodies with lots of stripes, are reddish-brown in color and have a pair of large orange eyes. Striped hermit crabs must also undergo molting which is an important process to nurture their tough exterior covering, or exoskeleton. They require a lot of shells their whole life for when they outgrow their current shell, so the extra shells will serve as replacement.
In conclusion, hermit crabs are a unique and interesting choice for pets. They require specific care, including a warm and humid environment and a variety of shells to choose from. With proper care, hermit crabs can live up to 30 years. Whether you’re looking for a small or large pet, there is a hermit crab species that will meet your needs.