Live Hermit Crabs for Sale: Fun Facts
Fun Facts About Hermit Crabs
1. Hermit Crabs Aren't True Crabs
Despite their name, hermit crabs aren't actually true crabs. They're more closely related to lobsters and share a unique characteristic—unlike true crabs, they have a soft abdomen, which they protect by living in the shells of other creatures.
2. They Borrow Their Homes
Hermit crabs don't grow their own shells; instead, they find and move into empty shells left behind by other animals, usually sea snails. As they grow, they continue to search for larger shells to accommodate their size.
3. Hermit Crabs Are Social Creatures
Unlike what their name suggests, hermit crabs are not solitary animals. In the wild, they live in large colonies, sometimes numbering in the hundreds. They often interact with each other and can be quite social.
4. They Communicate Through Drumming
Hermit crabs communicate with each other through a process called "drumming." They tap their claws or shells against a surface, creating a rhythmic sound that can indicate various behaviors, such as establishing dominance or attracting a mate.
5. Hermit Crabs Can Live on Land and in Water
There are both terrestrial (land-dwelling) and aquatic (water-dwelling) species of hermit crabs. Land hermit crabs still need access to water for drinking and to maintain the moisture in their gills, but they spend most of their lives on land.
6. Shells Are Status Symbols
In hermit crab communities, shells are more than just homes—they're status symbols. Hermit crabs will sometimes engage in "shell exchanges," where a group of crabs lines up from largest to smallest, each hoping to move into a better shell left by a larger crab.
7. They Have a Strong Sense of Smell
Hermit crabs rely heavily on their sense of smell to find food and detect other crabs. Their antennae are highly sensitive and can pick up scents from a distance, helping them navigate their environment.
8. Hermit Crabs Molt to Grow
As they grow, hermit crabs need to shed their exoskeleton in a process called molting. During molting, they become very vulnerable, so they often bury themselves in the sand to protect themselves until their new exoskeleton hardens.
9. They Can Regrow Lost Limbs
If a hermit crab loses a limb, it has the ability to regenerate it. The new limb begins as a small bud and grows back fully after several molts.
10. Some Hermit Crabs Decorate Their Shells
In the wild, some hermit crabs will attach bits of seaweed, sponges, or even small anemones to their shells. This behavior not only helps them camouflage but also deters predators.
11. They Can Live for Decades
With proper care, some species of hermit crabs can live for over 30 years in captivity, though the average lifespan is around 10-15 years. This makes them long-term companions for dedicated pet owners.
12. Hermit Crabs Are Sensitive to Light
Hermit crabs have compound eyes that are sensitive to light and movement. They prefer dim environments and will often become more active at night when the light levels are lower.
Setting Up Your Kit
When setting up your hermit crab starter kit, you can expect to create a humid and warm environment using the substrate and arranging shelters and climbing structures. You'll provide both fresh and saltwater, ensuring they are treated and available at all times. Maintaining proper temperature and humidity levels, along with offering a varied diet and regular misting, will help your hermit crabs thrive in their new habitat.
Setting Up the Habitat
Maintain a temperature between 75-85°F (24-29°C) and humidity levels around 70-80%. A hygrometer will help you monitor these levels. Provide a regular day/night cycle, and while UVB light is beneficial, it is not mandatory. Include climbing structures, hiding spots, and extra shells of various sizes for your crabs.
Water and Food
Provide both fresh and saltwater dishes, using dechlorinated water or spring water. Offer a balanced diet of fresh fruits, vegetables, protein sources like boiled eggs or chicken, and commercial hermit crab food.
Daily Care
Ensure temperature and humidity levels are stable. Replace water daily to prevent bacterial growth and change food daily to keep it fresh and nutritious.
Molting
Hermit crabs molt their exoskeleton periodically and may burrow and remain hidden during this time. Do not disturb crabs during molting and provide an isolation area if possible.
Handling
Handle hermit crabs gently and infrequently. Always support their body and avoid sudden movements. Watch for signs of stress, such as lethargy or loss of limbs.
Maintenance
Spot clean the tank weekly and perform a deep clean every few months. Provide a variety of shells to accommodate growing crabs.
Common Issues
Ensure enough shells to prevent fights and keep humidity high to prevent dehydration. Avoid overcrowding and handle minimally to reduce stress.
By following these guidelines, you'll create a healthy and enjoyable environment for your hermit crabs.
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