Types of Hermit Crabs

Although scientifically, there are several species of hermit crabs, there are two major classifications or types of hermit crabs – the land and the marine hermit crabs.  Although both types of hermit crabs are generally the same in appearance, the two may require different methods of caring specifically when it comes to maintaining the habitat for hermit crabs as well as their diets.

The land hermit crab also known as tree crab is the more popular of the types of hermit crabs because they are easier to find as most pet shops have them available for sale.  Although land hermit crabs are generally the scavenger type that eats almost anything, they are not that easy to take care of, contrary to what most people would think.  More than a good place to bury themselves, Land hermit crabs require the right amount of humid and the right temperature in order to survive.    A good habitat for the land hermit crab also needs some hermit crab supplies like good soil or flooring called a substrate.   The combination substrate that consist of sterilized sand and salt-watered coconut fiber called forest beddings are known to be the best type of substrate for land hermit crabs.  Land hermit crabs also need a spacious shelter that should be placed away from too much rain and sunshine.  The owner must also be ready to take special care of it during the molting season where it usually seeks for a new hermit crab shells to occupy.

Without proper substrate, a molting hermit crab becomes vulnerable to attacks by other crabs and would eventually be killed in the process.  This is why some people think that hermit crabs are short-lived pets and seem to die during the shedding of its exoskeleton.  However, with proper space given to each crab pet and the appropriate substrate suitable for molting as well as aiding tools such as hiding huts  to help your crabs molt, your land hermit crab will be able to shed off its exoskeleton without being harmed.
The marine hermit crab is usually the more useful of the types of hermit crabs.  As all hermit crabs are scavengers and will eat just about anything, they can serve as cleaners of any fish tank.  A properly chosen marine hermit crab will not only benefit a reef environment, they are also ideal companions and dwelling sharers for the other marine lives as they grow on a very slow rate and take up only minimal space.  Among the type of hermit crabs, the marine crab is generally the more adaptable to its environment.

However, appropriate care must also be taken to ensure the good health for your hermit crab pet.  Mimicking the hermit crabs original marine home is worthwhile to provide an ideal dwelling for your marine hermit crab.  Only water that is free from chlorine must be used. Ideally, natural marine salt water should be used than commercially labelled ones that usually contain table salt and thus chlorine.
Hermit crabs used to be mistaken for temporary pets that easily die.  But with proper care and nourishment, these types of hermit crabs, whether land or marine can look forward to longer and happier lives.