What Does a Hermit Crab Need to Live? A Comprehensive Care Guide

Hermit crabs make for fascinating pets Their tiny claws poking out of colorful shells, beady eyes on stalks surveying their surroundings, the way they scuttle across the tank – it’s no wonder that these charismatic crustaceans have captured the hearts of so many

But caring for hermit crabs takes more than simply placing them in a tank. To keep them healthy and happy, you need to understand their needs and provide a habitat that meets those needs In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk through everything you need to know to successfully care for pet hermit crabs.

An Appropriate Habitat

The foundation of good hermit crab care is their habitat, or “crabitat.” Hermit crabs are used to warm, humid environments, so replicating those conditions is key.

Tank Size

A minimum of 10 gallons per crab is recommended. The more space the better, as hermit crabs are active and love to climb and explore. For larger crabs, aim for 10+ gallons per crab.

Substrate

Hermit crabs need substrate deep enough to completely bury themselves – at least 3 times the size of your largest crab. A mix of play sand and coconut fiber works well. It should be kept moist but not sopping wet.

Heat & Humidity

Warm temperatures around 75-85°F are needed. Humidity should be kept around 70-80%. Achieve this through under tank heaters, heat lamps, and humidifiers or misting. Avoid direct sunlight.

Saltwater & Freshwater

Provide dechlorinated freshwater and saltwater (made with marine salt). The water should be dechlorinated and deep enough for crabs to submerge to replenish their shell water.

Climbing Toys & Hides

Hermit crabs are natural climbers. Give them driftwood, cholla wood, and plastic vines to climb. Hides like coconut huts give them spots to retreat and feel secure.

Tank Lid

A secured lid or hood maintains heat and humidity. Make sure it allows for proper ventilation though.

Proper Diet

Hermit crabs are omnivorous scavengers Offer them a varied diet

• High-quality commercial hermit crab diet
• Fresh fruits and vegetables
• Unsalted nuts
• Clean protein like cooked fish, shrimp, egg, chicken
• Calcium sources like cuttlebone and eggshell
• Occasional treats like honey, peanut butter, or mealworms

Fresh foods should be changed out daily to prevent spoilage. Feed them a small amount in the evening when they are most active. Having constant access to calcium is essential.

Shells

Hermit crabs use shells for protection. Always provide extra, properly-sized shells for them to change into as they grow. Avoid painted shells, as the paint can be toxic if ingested. Look for shells with circular openings close to the size of the crab’s claw. Offer 3-5 options per crab.

Proper Handling

Hermit crabs are delicate and handling can stress them out. When you need to handle them, go slowly and keep them low to the ground. Avoid handling them for longer than necessary.

Molting

Hermit crabs grow by molting their exoskeleton. They will bury underground for weeks or months to safely molt. Never dig up a molting crab. Simply leave them be until they resurface. Molting is crucial to their growth and survival.

Friends & Tank Mates

Never house hermit crabs alone – they are social animals. House them in groups of 2+. Avoid housing them with fish or other species that could harm them.

Tank Maintenance

Spot clean daily by removing uneaten food and waste. Do full substrate changes every 4-6 months when odor builds up. Clean dishes, decor, and tank walls with dechlorinated water as needed.

Saving Money

You can save money on their habitat by using large plastic bins instead of glass tanks. Play sand and plastic hides from hardware stores are budget-friendly options too. Buy supplies during sales and look for used items.

Final Tips

With the proper habitat setup, nutrition, and care, hermit crabs can live 10+ years. Be sure to do your research before bringing home these fascinating pets. Hermit crab care takes some effort, but it is very rewarding! Let us know if you have any other hermit crab care questions.

Hermit crabs need a spacious, warm, and humid habitat with plenty of substrate for burrowing, fresh and saltwater for soaking, and a varied diet.