Basic Crab Care
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 baby turtles, which may carry salmonella.
Purple Pinchers are considered the friendliest of all hermit crab species. Below are some basic care tips to help keep your crab healthy and happy.
Companionship
Hermit crabs are social animals, so do not keep one alone. Always provide at least one companion.
Water
Always provide fresh, clean water in a water dish, as well as a separate bowl of saltwater. Both should be cleaned and replaced daily.
Food
The food dish should always contain fresh food. Discard any stale food every day. Hermit crabs eat and drink mostly in the evening and at night. We recommend Tropicshells Hermit Crab Food, as it contains all the essential nutrients needed for healthy growth.
Temperature
Hermit crabs become uncomfortable below 60°F. At 50°F or lower, they may begin to die. Keep them at room temperature. If the room temperature may drop, install a small terrarium heater, which can be found at most pet stores.
Avoid excessive heat as well—temperatures of 100°F or higher for extended periods can cause heat exhaustion and death.
Humidity
Place a piece of unbleached natural sea sponge in the water dish to help maintain humidity. Over time, the crab may eat the sponge; it is a good source of calcium for their shell. Fresh water and saltwater must always be available and changed daily.
Terrarium Cleaning
Clean the terrarium weekly. Crushed shells or shell bedding help keep the enclosure clean and are washable. To clean them, place the bedding in a strainer and rinse thoroughly under tap water.
Handling
Bathing your crabs is not necessary, as they can clean themselves. However, you may gently wipe the shell with a damp cloth. While doing so, keep your thumb on the large claw and two fingers behind the shell, applying gentle pressure to keep the crab still.
Remember, Purple Pinchers can pinch if mishandled, though this is rare and usually harmless. If allowing a crab to walk on your hand, keep your palm open and fingers extended.
Activity
If your crabs are not active during the day, this is normal. They are typically more active in the evening and at night.
Shells
Finally, always provide empty shells (Item #500-2) slightly larger than the one your crab is currently using. This is essential, as crabs may need to change shells at any time, especially after molting.
Follow these care tips, and you will enjoy your pet hermit crabs for many years to come.