Basic Hermit Crab Care Guide

At TropicShells, we sell land hermit crabs, commonly known as Purple Pinchers (Coenobita clypeatus). Hermit crabs are hypoallergenic and have no known diseases that affect humans, unlike some reptiles such as baby turtles that may carry salmonella.

Purple Pinchers are considered the friendliest and hardiest of all hermit crab species. The following care guidelines will help keep your crabs healthy, comfortable, and active.

Companionship

Hermit crabs are social animals and should never be kept alone. Always house at least two hermit crabs together to prevent stress and promote natural behavior.

Water

Provide two separate water dishes at all times:

• One bowl of fresh, dechlorinated water
• One bowl of saltwater (made with marine-grade salt)

Both water dishes should be cleaned and refilled daily. The bowls should be shallow enough for the crabs to enter and exit safely.

Food

Hermit crabs should always have access to fresh food. Remove uneaten or stale food every day. They are most active and feed primarily during the evening and nighttime hours.

We recommend TropicShells Hermit Crab Food, which contains all essential nutrients needed for proper growth, molting, and shell health.

Temperature

Hermit crabs are sensitive to temperature changes:

• Below 60°F, they become stressed and uncomfortable
• At 50°F or lower, they may not survive

Maintain a stable room temperature. If temperatures may drop, use a small terrarium heater, available at most pet stores.
Avoid excessive heat—temperatures above 100°F for extended periods can cause heat exhaustion and death.

Humidity

Proper humidity is essential for breathing and molting. Place a piece of unbleached natural sea sponge in the water dish to help maintain moisture levels. Over time, crabs may nibble on the sponge, which also provides a natural source of calcium.

Both freshwater and saltwater must always be available and changed daily.

Terrarium Cleaning

Clean the terrarium once per week. Crushed shells or shell bedding help keep the enclosure clean and are reusable.

To clean bedding:

1. Place it in a strainer
2. Rinse thoroughly under tap water
3. Allow it to drain before returning it to the tank

Handling

Bathing hermit crabs is not necessary, as they groom themselves. If needed, you may gently wipe the shell with a damp cloth.

When handling:

• Place your thumb on the large claw
• Use two fingers behind the shell
• Apply gentle pressure to keep the crab secure

Purple Pinchers may pinch if mishandled, though this is rare and typically harmless. If allowing a crab to walk on your hand, keep your palm open and fingers flat.

Activity

Hermit crabs are nocturnal. Limited daytime activity is normal—they are most active in the evening and at night.

Shells

Always provide several empty shells slightly larger than the one your crab is currently using (Item #500-2). Shell changes can occur at any time, especially after molting, and are essential for their health and protection.

By following these care guidelines, you can enjoy happy, healthy hermit crabs for many years.
For supplies, food, and shells, trust TropicShells to support your hermit crab’s needs.