Hermit Crabs Information For Beginners

If you are new to the world of the pet crustaceans, then you will find that there is a lot of hermit crabs information to be digested before you even begin to think about buying one as a pet. This tiny crustacean hails from the tropics and is quite unlike the crabs you see at the fish counter. In actual fact he is far removed from a traditional crab as his nearest relative is the spider.

Exotic pets are growing rapidly in popularity and a lot of hermit crabs information can be found online or at specialist pet shops. These little critters make surprisingly good pets, particularly for kids, because they are fairly low maintenance and set up costs are not too expensive either. You need to be aware, though, that these guys can live for up to15 years in captivity, although a more realistic figure is likely to be about 6 years, so taking on one of these guys as a pet is not to be undertaken lightly.

In researching more about these critters, you may be surprised to learn that this particular creature is not classed as a real crab because he is born without a shell. Because both his digestive glands and reproductive system are housed in his abdomen, he has to find a discarded shell to move into to keep this part of his body protected and also to keep hidden from predators. You should also know that he can be quite picky about his shell and will often choose a shell that is lined with mother of pearl. No one knows for sure why this is, but it is thought that the mother or pearl may offer added insulation.

Another slightly bizarre snippet of info that may interest you is that contrary to their name, these creatures are anything but solitary. They thrive in pairs or small colonies and it would be cruel to buy just one as a pet as they often get lonely and need the company of others. You will be amazed that such small creatures still have their own discerning characteristics and can be quite entertaining to watch. You can actually identify individuals from the group by their personalities and habits.

As you search for more interesting facts, you may be surprised to find that there are over 600 species although only a handful are suitable to be kept in captivity. There are two main species that can be found as pets and these are Coenobita clypeatus, commonly known as Caribbean, land, or tree crab and Coenobita compressus which is commonly known as the Ecuadorian or E crab. Both of these types are fairly easy to track down in pet shops but be careful when choosing which one is for you; make sure none of his legs are missing and that he is lively and alert and free from parasites.

Well this is just a small piece of the overwhelming amount of info out there and I am sure you will be fascinated as you delve more closely into the world of these fascinating critters. Keep looking for more facts about this little critter! Who knows, you may even be tempted to have some as pets. They really are awesome little creatures!