Hermit Crab

n. crab that has no hard shell that lives in empty seashells of gastropods

Hermit crabs are decapod crustaceans of the superfamily Paguroidea , not closely related to true crabs. Most hermit crabs salvage empty seashells to shelter and protect their soft abdomens, from which they derive their name. There are about five hundred known species of hermit crabs in the world, most of which are aquatic, living at a range of depths from shallow coral reefs and shorelines to deep sea bottoms, although some species are terrestrial. A number of species, most notably king crabs, have abandoned seashells for a free-living life; these species have forms similar to true crabs and are known as carcinised hermit crabs. Hermit crabs live in the wild in colonies of 100 or more, and do not thrive in smaller numbers.
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Noun
1. small soft-bodied marine crustaceans living in cast-off shells of gastropods
(hypernym) decapod crustacean, decapod
(member-holonym) Pagurus, genus Pagurus

Coenobita perlatus
General Info:
Adult body size 4".
Hermit crabs are very active and fascinating to observe. Although their claws can be used successfully, the properly handled hermit crab makes an excellent "beginner pet" for children. Hermit crabs bodies outgrow their shells! Therefore, several empty shells should be left in the enclosure at all times for every crab. Shell "exchanges" normally occur in the water bowl.
Temperature/Humidity:
Ideal temperature for hermit crabs should range between 70 and 85 degrees. An undertank heater on one side of the enclosure will help to maintain this temperature. Nighttime temperature should remain between 65 and 70 degrees. The humidity for these crabs should be kept at or near 65 percent.
Lighting:
Hermit crabs require ultraviolet lighting to maintain good health. Ultraviolet lighting is recommended for 12 hours per day. The use of a timer will help maintain an accurate lighting schedule.
Feeding/Watering:
Hermit crabs are omnivorous (eat both animal and plant matter). Therefore their diet should include insects, vegetables, fruit, and prepared foods. Suggested vegetables to feed once a week: dark, leafy greens (mustard, collard, radish, and turnip greens or tops, kale, cabbage, dandelion leaves-stems-flowers, broccoli, non-treated backyard grasses and weeds, clover), legumes, mulberry and grape leaves, roses, hibiscus, nasturtiums, carnation flowers, cured alfalfa and timothy hay, soaked alfalfa pellets, thawed frozen mixed vegetables (peas, lima beans, carrots, green beans), peas in the pod, cauliflower, soy bean sprouts, radishes, summer and winter squashes, grapes, apples, oranges, pear, peaches, plums, nectarines, dates, all types of melons, strawberries, raspberries, bananas, mangoes, and tomatoes. Some high protein content foods suggested are: dry maintenance dog food, tofu, and scrambled or hard-boiled eggs. Feeding every other day is suggested as well as dusting food with vitamin/calcium powder every other feeding. Always remove food four hours after it is offered to prevent spoilage. An easily accessible shallow water dish works best with crabs. Water should be changed daily.
Habitat/Housing:
Multiple hermit crabs should be maintained in at least a 10 gallon terrarium. However, for multiple pets, increase habitat size accordingly to ensure each individual has plenty of space to move about and not interfere with tankmates. A screen lid is essential for proper air exchange. An undertank heater should be placed on one end of the tank. A shelter for hiding is necessary, especially if multiple pets are in the same enclosure. Misting the habitat occasionally will help maintain proper humidity levels.
Substrate (Bedding):
2" to 3" inches of Repti-Sand is recommended for hermit crab terrariums to maintain the proper humidity levels within the enclosure.

hermit-crab /'hə:mit'kræb/
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