Caribbean Hermit Crab (Coenobita clypeatus)

Please note: The currently available animals are only sold as a pair. Caribbean Hermit Crabs are social animals and should not be kept alone.

The Caribbean Hermit Crab is a fascinating terrestrial hermit crab known for its colourful appearance, long lifespan and unique shell-changing behaviour. As it grows, it regularly moves into larger shells, making a selection of suitable shells an essential part of its care.

This species is social, curious and most active during the evening and nighttime hours. It thrives in a warm, humid enclosure with deep substrate for burrowing and plenty of climbing opportunities.

Scientific name: Coenobita clypeatus
Common name: Caribbean Hermit Crab
Origin: Caribbean region and Western Atlantic coast
Size: approximately 7–10 cm
Minimum enclosure size: at least 80 × 40 × 40 cm for a pair
Temperature: 24–28 °C
Humidity: 75–85 %
Diet: fruits, vegetables, insects, crustaceans and other varied foods
Behaviour: social, crepuscular and nocturnal
Difficulty: intermediate