Where Do Hermit Crabs Live

Hermit crabs can live both in water and on land. Marine hermit crabs live in salty or sea water; while terrestrial hermit crabs live on and in sandy substrates. Both types of crabs would need access to saline or salty water though because this is normal in their wild habitats. At http://www.healthyhermitcrabs.com You’ll get further information about making the hermit crab cage a home for your exotic pet.

Just like terrestrial hermit crabs in the wild, marine hermit crabs live on and in sandy substrates. But they need to be submerged in the water for most of their lives. There are some sub-species who do venture on land, but they do these land forays only infrequently. Marine hermit crabs are perfectly adaptable to the sea life and can live right on top of coral formations. Others prefer seeking the refuge of stones and corals. Pet marine hermit crabs are often more comfortable on coral surfaces or inside small crevices of rock formations. They also prefer tight corners as opposed to the open bottom areas. However, during feeding time, they do venture on top of the corals to “fish” for food, or scavenge on the sand.

On the other hand, terrestrial hermit crabs prefer moist sandy beaches for their homes. So it’s important to replicate the natural hermit crab habitat your pet is able to live in. In the wild, some hermit crabs are able to take refuge in trees or the branches of plants. Pet hermit crabs of this kind replicate this natural instinct by climbing on any surface they can find like small twigs or pebbles. These terrestrial hermit crabs are more known for their constant digging under loose sand, and hiding under toys (or enclosure designs like an upturned coconut husk.) Some terrestrial crabs prefer to be near water at all times, while others prefer very limited contact with moisture.